Joss Ackland’s Height
6ft 0 (182.9 cm)
Joss Ackland (1928–2023) was a distinguished British actor whose career spanned over six decades, encompassing more than 130 film, television, and stage roles. Born Sidney Edmond Jocelyn Ackland on February 29, 1928, in North Kensington, London, he began his acting journey at the age of 17 and trained at the Central School of Speech and Drama. Ackland’s early stage performances included notable roles at London’s Old Vic Theatre, where he worked alongside esteemed actors such as Maggie Smith and Judi Dench.
He gained international recognition for his performances in films such as Lethal Weapon 2 (1989), where he portrayed the villainous Arjen Rudd, and The Hunt for Red October (1990), in which he played Ambassador Andrei Lysenko. His other notable film credits include White Mischief (1987), Bill & Ted’s Bogus Journey (1991), and The Mighty Ducks (1992). Ackland was nominated for two BAFTA Awards: Best Supporting Actor for White Mischief and Best Actor for First and Last (1990).
On stage, Ackland’s performances were equally impressive. He originated the role of Juan Perón in the West End production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Evita and starred as Fredrik Egerman in Stephen Sondheim’s A Little Night Music. His portrayal of C.S. Lewis in the television adaptation of Shadowlands was also widely acclaimed.
In recognition of his contributions to drama, Ackland was appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 2001. He passed away peacefully at his home in Clovelly, Devon, on November 19, 2023, at the age of 95, surrounded by his family.
Joss Ackland’s legacy endures through his extensive body of work, which continues to inspire and entertain audiences worldwide.
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