John Hurt dies: On-set story from Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy leaves fans emotional
SIR JOHN HURT’s death has prompted a flurry of tributes online - with one anecdote from the set of Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy proving particularly affecting.
John Hurt, who starred in Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, has died aged 77
Kathy Burke shared a touching story on Twitter of her brief encounter with the iconic British actor, and the tale has garnered hundreds of retweets and favourites within hours of being posted.
In the widely acclaimed 2011 espionage film, Hurt played Control whilst Burke was Connie Sachs - and it seems the first time they crossed paths was a fine example of just how warm Hurt was.
“I was only on the film Tinker Tailor Solider Spy for a few days,” Burke wrote. “On one of those days I found myself sharing a car to set with John Hurt.
“We did the niceties of introductions then looked out of our respective windows. My mind was racing and whirling with all the great work I’d seen him do.
John Hurt played Control in the 2011 film
Kathy Burke also starred
My mind was racing and whirling with all the great work I’d seen him do
“F**k it, I thought. ‘John, can I just say, you have been consistently brilliant in everything you do and I couldn’t sit here next to you without saying so, I’d never forgive myself if I didn’t. I love you and want to thank you’.
“The driver shouted, ‘Hear, hear!’
“John beamed, kissed my hand and with that magnificent throaty voice said, ‘well what a delightful way to start the day’.”
One fan responded: “What a lovely tweet. With everything going to s**t these days, thanks, thanks for that.”
“Beautiful. I would expect nothing less from the great man. Proper sad that he has gone,” posted another.
John Hurt was a master of his craft
Actor Sir John Hurt dies aged 77
Of course John had countless memorable roles to his name, earning two Oscar nominations, a Golden Globe and four BAFTAs along the way. He was also knighted in 2015 for services to drama.
He had been given the all-clear from cancer but pulled out of play The Entertainer last year due to ill-health.
His agent this morning confirmed that he had passed away at the age of 77.