Tony Winner & OLIVER! Star Ron Moody Dies at 91

Variety reports that actor Ron Moody, perhaps best known for his film role as 'Fagin' in the Charles Dickens novel adaptation, OLIVER!, has passed away at the age of 91. His wife, THERESE Blackbourn Moody shared the news with the BBC, commenting, "He brought joy to his family and to the hearts of many and will be greatly missed. He was singing until the end."

Moody's portrayal of the evil pickpocket Fagin earned him both Oscar and BAFTA nominations, as well as a Golden Globe win in 1969. The film itself garnered 11 Oscar nomination, winning six awards.

The actor also appeared in the same role in Lionel Bart's West End stage adaptation in 1960, and won a Tony Award in 1984 when he starred in the Broadway revival of the musical. He also appeared on stage with the Cameron Mackintosh revival cast at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane in 2010 to celebrate Oliver!'s 50th anniversary.

His other film roles included Merlin in Disney's "A Kid in King Arthur's Court." TV credits included guest starring roles in "Starsky and Hutch" and "Hart to Hart." In 1969, he was offered, but declined, the lead role in Doctor Who.

Photo courtesy of Columbia Pictures