British actor Stephen Greif, best known to American audiences for his role on “The Crown,” has died at age 78, a rep announced on Monday.
The character actor played Speaker of the House Sir Bernard Weatherill during Season 4 of the hit Netflix drama about Britain’s royal family.
The English actor, born in in Sawbridgeworth, Hertfordshire, is survived by two sons.
Greif enjoyed an in depth profession on stage and screen, starting within the late Sixties with Britain’s prestigious Royal Shakespeare Company. He earned nominations for various awards, including an Olivier Award in 1979 for his performance as Biff within the National Theatre’s “Death of a Salesman.”
On television, Greif is understood largely to British audiences for taking part in space commander Travis within the ’70s sci-fi series “Blake’s 7,” and for taking part in pub owner Harry Fenning within the sitcom “Citizen Smith.” He’s also appeared in British TV institutions like “Coronation Street,” “EastEnders” and “Doctor Who.”
Greif’s death has led to an outpouring of best wishes — and sadness — from colleagues and family members.
“Very saddened to listen to that Stephen Greif has left us. A rock-solid performer with a voice as liquid and deadly as molten lava. When it got here to playing villains, he was unsurpassed. His acerbic wit and obvious intelligence made him a joy to direct. Thanks for the fun, Stephen,” director Barnaby Edwards (“Doctor Who”) tweeted.
Phil Davis, best known for “Sherlock” and “Whitechapel,” wrote, “Very sad, a really tremendous actor and a sort and sensitive man. We played a little bit of golf together. RIP.”
“Such sad news,” David Kennedy, star of British soap “Hollyoaks” said. “I worked with Stephen just once … He was a consummate skilled and an absolute gent. RIP sir and condolences to his family.”
No explanation for death has been announced.
