Gladiator actor John Shrapnel dies at the age of 77

Gladiator actor John Shrapnel has died at the age of 77. Shrapnel also featured in the movie Notting Hill.

Shrapnel, born in Birmingham, was also known for his work in the theater, where he played many roles with the Royal Shakespeare Company and the National Theater.

Sky News reports that the National Theatre led tributes to the star, describing him as a “wonderful actor”. “We’re very sad to hear that the wonderful actor John Shrapnel has died. He performed in many productions at the National Theatre, including Phedre – our first NTLive production,” it said.

Shrapnel had reportedly been suffering from cancer.

He was a respected theatre actor but had also appeared in a number of films, including 101 Dalmatians, The Duchess and Alien Autopsy.

The interpreter, married and father of three children, gave life to the British press agent Julia Roberts in the movie «Notting Hill» in 1999, a year before appearing as Senator Gaio in “Gladiator” with Russell Crowe and Joaquin Phoenix.

Via Sky News