Antony Sher, an award-winning stage and cinema actor, died on Friday at the age of 72 following a battle with cancer, according to the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC).
Sher, who was born in South Africa, was widely regarded as one of Britain’s finest contemporary performers, having played nearly every major Shakespearean character from King Lear to Shylock.
He earned an Olivier Award in 1985 for his dynamic portrayal of Richard III as a nasty hunchback on crutches, propelling himself about the stage.
Sher met his husband, Gregory Doran, who would later become the RSC’s creative director while working at the RSC. Sher was once regarded by Prince Charles as his favorite actor.
In 2005, they were one of the first gay couples to marry in the United Kingdom.
Doran stood down from his post in September after learning that his husband’s illness was terminal.
RSC executive director Catherine Mallyon and acting artistic director Erica Whyman, said they were “deeply saddened” at Sher’s death.
“Our thoughts and sincere condolences are with Greg, and with Antony’s family and their friends at this devastating time,” they added.
