Chariots Of Fire director Hugh Hudson has died in hospital in London aged 86.
The Oscar-winning film director of the 1981 film Chariots Of Fire, died at Charing Cross Hospital today (February 10) after a short illness.
A statement released on behalf of his family said: “Hugh Hudson, 86, beloved husband and father, died at Charing Cross Hospital on February 10, 2023 after a short illness.
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“He was best known for directing the Oscar winning film Chariots of Fire. He is survived by his wife Maryam, his son Thomas and his first wife Sue,” the statement concluded.
Nigel Havers, who starred in Chariots Of Fire as Lord Andrew Lindsay, has expressed his devastation, with him saying that he is “beyond devastated” to hear of the news.
Having known the film director for more than 45 years, Nigel described Hugh as a “great friend”.
Speaking to PA, Nigel said: “Chariots of Fire was one of the greatest experiences of my professional life, and, like so many others, I owe much of what followed to him.”
He concluded: “I shall miss him greatly.”
Chariots Of Fire is a British historical sports drama film, which is based on the true story of two British athletes competing in the 1924 Olympics.
The film follows Eric Liddell, a devout Scottish Christian who runs for the glory of God, and Harold Abrahams, an English Jew who runs to overcome prejudice.
Hugh went on to co-produce the 2012 stage adaptation of the film of the same name and premise, which happened to be for the London Olympic year.
In that same year it was announced that Hugh would direct Midnight Sun, a feature film about a child who tries to help a family of polar bears on the shrinking polar ice cap.
Aside from his work on movies and stage adaptations, Hugh was also known for his work on advertisements.
Hugh famously directed adverts for British Rail, British Airways, Benson & Hedges and Cinzano.
The film industry legend was born in London in 1936, and was sent to boarding school when he was only six years of age.
Educated at Eton College, he began his National Service in the Dragoon Guards in 1956, and reached the rank of second lieutenant. He was discharged in January 1960.
He was first married in 1977 to Susan Michie, who was a painter. The couple welcomed a son.
In November 2003, he went on to marry actress Maryam d’Abo, who he is pictured above with.
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
