Actor Bob Hoskins, who was best known for his role in Who Framed Roger Rabbit which was filmed at Elstree Studios, has died of pneumonia at the age of 71.
The star, who was nominated for an Oscar for his role in Mona Lisa, announced his retirement from acting in 2012 after being diagnosed with Parkinson's disease.
His family released a statement saying he died last night in hospital.
Paul Welsh, chairman Elstree Screen Heritage, said: “I’m very very sorry to hear that. Bob was a genuine and down to earth, generally nice man and of course a very talented actor.
“He will always be very much a part of British TV and film history.”
Bob was quoted in the most recent edition of Elstree & Borehamwood Town Crier as saying: “Without Elstree, British cinema would have lost half it’s history.”
A spokesperson from Elstree Studios has said: "We are saddened to hear of Bob Hoskins passing. Bob spent 7 months here in 1986 filming Who Framed Roger Rabbit and has frequented the Studios many times in the years since. It is a sad day for our film industry.
"Our thoughts go out to his family and friends at this sad time."
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