Critically acclaimed actor Peter O’Toole, known for his role in the 1962 film Lawrence of Arabia, has died, his agent confirmed to British press Sunday. He was 81.
The eight-time Oscar nominee passed away Saturday at a London hospital after suffering a longtime illness, according to his agent Steve Kenis, the Guardian reports.
O’Toole announced his departure from the stage and silver screen last year.
“I bid the profession a dry-eyed and profoundly grateful farewell,” he said in his announcement.
The Irish-born actor was heralded as one of Hollywood’s old guard of actors, and received an honorary Oscar in 2003 for his contribution to film. The venerable actor found fame in David Glean’s Lawrence of Arabia and went on to star in films including Goodbye Mr. Chips, The Ruling Class, The Stunt Man and My Favourite Year.
