Bob Hoskins was born on October 26, 1942, in Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, England. He was the son of a teacher and a lorry driver. Hoskins began his career in the entertainment industry as a stage actor, before moving onto television and eventually making his mark in Hollywood. His breakthrough role came in 1980 when he starred in the British gangster film The Long Good Friday, earning critical acclaim for his portrayal of a London gangster. From there, Hoskins went on to establish himself as a versatile actor, known for his ability to play both comedic and dramatic roles with equal skill.
While Hoskins had achieved success in Britain, he truly became a household name on an international scale with his role as private investigator Eddie Valiant in the 1988 fantasy-comedy film Who Framed Roger Rabbit. Hoskins impressed audiences and critics alike with his ability to seamlessly interact with animated characters in a live-action setting. The film was a massive hit and solidified Hoskins’ status as a beloved actor in Hollywood.
Throughout his career, Hoskins worked with renowned directors and starred alongside some of the biggest names in the industry. He shared the screen with actors like Cher in the romantic comedy Mermaids (1990) and Michael Caine in the crime drama Mona Lisa (1986), for which he received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. Hoskins also had memorable roles in films such as Hook (1991), Enemy at the Gates (2001), and Snow White and the Huntsman (2012).
In addition to his film work, Hoskins also had a successful career in television, appearing in shows like Pennies from Heaven (1978) and The Street (2006-2009). He received numerous awards and accolades throughout his career, including a Golden Globe and a BAFTA Award. Hoskins was universally respected for his dedication to his craft and his ability to bring depth and humanity to his characters.
Tragically, in 2012, Hoskins announced his retirement from acting due to a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease. Despite this setback, he continued to work in voice acting, lending his voice to characters in video games such as Call of Duty: World at War (2008). Sadly, on April 29, 2014, Bob Hoskins passed away at the age of 71, leaving behind a legacy of unforgettable performances and a lasting impact on the world of entertainment.