In a year that's seen more than its fair share of celebrity deaths, 2016 added another to the list this morning as noted actor Peter Vaughan passed away this morning. He was 93 years old.
Vaughan was born Peter Ohm on April 4, 1923 in Wem, Shropshire, England the son of a bank clerk and a nurse. He began his career on stage, joining the Wolverhampton Repertory Theatre before joining the army in WWII. Vaughan fought in both Belgium and Normandy.
Over the decades, Vaughan had numerous small roles in dozens of films making his movie debut in 1959 in The 39 Steps. He continued his career in such noted films as Time Bandits, The Crucible, and Death at a Funeral.
Also known for his television work, Vaughan distinguished himself playing memorable characters in the BBC shows Porridge, Chancer, and Citizen Smith. Most recently Vaughan played the role of Maester Aemon for five seasons on HBO's Game of Thrones.
Peter Vaughan is survived by his second wife Lillias Walker and died peacefully surrounded by family and loved ones in Mannings Heath, West Sussex, England.
On a personal note I will always remember his small but brilliant performance as Winston the Ogre in Time Bandits and his heartbreaking turn as servant William Stevens Sr. in The Remains of the Day. In a show that has a knack for perfect casting, Vaughan's was one of the best in HBO's Game of Thrones. He brought a dignity and grace to the role that perfectly captured George R. R. Martin's character.
And now his watch is ended.
