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Ron Moody, Fagin In Oliver!, Dies Aged 91

Actor Ron Moody, who played Fagin in the hit film version of Oliver!, has died aged 91.

The star, who was nominated for the best actor Oscar in 1968 for his performance in the Charles Dickens adaptation, died in hospital today.

His widow Therese said: “He brought joy to his family and to the hearts of many and will be greatly missed. He was singing until the end.”

Moody first took on the role of Fagin in Lionel Bart’s West End stage adaptation in 1960 and went on to win a Tony award when he reprised it in a 1984 Broadway revival.

The film also starred Harry Secombe and Oliver Reed with young unknowns Mark Lester playing the orphan Oliver and Jack Wild playing the Artful Dodger.

It was nominated for 11 Oscars, and won six, including best film and best director for Carol Reed.

In 2010 Moody sang Pick A Pocket Or Two once again at the end of one of Cameron Mackintosh’s revival shows which fell on the original’s 50th anniversary.

He had a lengthy career in TV and film, including an appearance on EastEnders, but was said to have turned down the role of Doctor Who.

His agent said Moody had been ill for some time.

He is survived by his widow and six children.

Image credits: Sky News