Bob Hoskins

Bob Hoskins was an English actor best known for his roles in films such as Who Framed Roger Rabbit, Mona Lisa, and The Long Good Friday. With a career spanning over four decades, he became a beloved figure in both British and Hollywood cinema.

Personal and Family Life

Bob Hoskins was born on October 26, 1942, in Bury St. Edmunds, Suffolk, England. His parents were Elsie Lillian, a nursery school teacher, and Robert William Hoskins, Sr., a lorry driver and bookkeeper. Hoskins had a modest education and left school at age 15, but his interest in acting took root at an early age after his English teacher inspired him with a love for literature and language. He was married twice, first to Jane Livesey, with whom he had two children, and later to Linda Banwell, with whom he had another two children.

Career

After initially taking odd jobs to support himself, Hoskins secured a role in a stage production by accident when he accompanied a friend to auditions. His career took off after he appeared in the TV mini-series Pennies from Heaven in 1978. This led to significant films in the 1980s, including The Long Good Friday, Mona Lisa, and Who Framed Roger Rabbit. He was noted for his gravelly voice, strong Cockney accent, and often portrayed tough or grouchy characters, including gangsters.

Death and Legacy

Bob Hoskins passed away on April 29, 2014, due to pneumonia at the age of 71. His death was widely mourned, and he is remembered for his remarkable contributions to film and television. Hoskins left behind a legacy of diverse performances, earning respect for both his comedic and dramatic roles throughout his career.

Filmography