Who Framed Roger Rabbit; actor Bob Hoskins dead at 71

USPA News - British actor Bob Hoskins, who is best remembered for playing gangsters, tough guys and working-class gentlemen in films such as "Who Framed Roger Rabbit" and "The Long Good Friday," died in England on late Tuesday. He was 71 years old.

"We are devastated by the loss of our beloved Bob," his wife Linda and their four children said in a joint statement released on Wednesday through his publicist Clair Dobbs. "Bob died peacefully at hospital last night surrounded by family, following a bout of pneumonia. We ask that you respect our privacy during this time and thank you for your messages of love and support." Hoskins` health had declined in recent years and he was diagnosed with Parkinson`s disease about two years ago, prompting his retirement from acting. "I loved him to the ends of the earth and he loved me back just the same," daughter Rosa Hoskins said on her personal website. She revealed in a posting the "11 lessons" her father had passed on to her, such as to be yourself, be flamboyant, to not worry about other people`s opinions, and to be generous and kind. "These are the lessons he taught me, I will keep them close to my heart and remind myself of them whenever I stumble or falter," Rosa wrote. "They are his words; the words spoken so often to encourage, comfort and reassure. This isn`t general wisdom, rather advice that he tailor-made just for me. I love you Dad." Hoskins` film debut came in 1980 with his role as Harold Shand in "The Long Good Friday." He was then featured in the 1984 movie "The Cotton Club" and the 1986 "Mona Lisa," the latter which earned him an Oscar nomination and several awards such as at the Cannes Film Festival, a BAFTA, and a Golden Globe. Born Robert Hoskins, the actor also received a Golden Globe nomination for his role in the 1988 live-action and animation synthesis "Who Framed Roger Rabbit." Through the following decade, Hoskins appeared in a variety of films ranging from 1991`s "Hook" and 1995`s ?Nixon" to 2012`s "Snow White and the Huntsman." The actor is survived by his wife Linda Hoskins, two sons, Alex and Jack, and two daughters, Rosa and Sarah.