Actor Bernard Hill, known for roles in 'Titanic' and 'Lord of the Rings', dies at 79

Hill, an English actor, played Captain Edward Smith in the 1997 Oscar-winning film 'Titanic' and King Théoden in 'The Lord of the Rings' film trilogy.

He died aged 79, his agent has confirmed.

No further details have been released at this time.

Hill was born on December 17, 1944, in Manchester, England. He began his acting career in the early 1970s, appearing in a number of television roles before landing his breakout role as Captain Edward Smith in 'Titanic'.

Hill went on to star in a number of other films, including 'The Lord of the Rings' trilogy, 'Gladiator', and 'The Departed'. He also had a successful career on stage, appearing in productions of 'Hamlet', 'Macbeth', and 'King Lear'.

Hill's death is a great loss to the world of acting. He was a talented and versatile actor who will be remembered for his many iconic roles.