Ian Holm, Bilbo Baggins actor in The Lord of the Rings, dies at 88

Award-winning actor Ian Holm, who starred as Bilbo Baggins in the Lord of the Rings films, has died at 88.

Holm's agent confirmed his death to The Guardian, saying in a statement on Friday, "It is with great sadness that the actor Sir Ian Holm CBE passed away this morning at the age of 88. He died peacefully in hospital, with his family and carer. Charming, kind and ferociously talented, we will miss him hugely." He was suffering from a Parkinson's related illness, according to the report.

In addition to playing Bilbo in The Lord of the Rings movies, Holm earned a Best Supporting Actor Oscar nomination for Chariots of Fire, and he starred in films like The Fifth Element, Brazil, Alien, and much more. He earned acclaim on stage as well and won a Tony for The Homecoming, in which he portrayed Lenny.

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"RIP Ian Holm, a genius actor who brought considerable presence to parts funny, heartbreaking & terrifying," director Edgar Wright said, particularly remembering his "iconic" performance as Ash in Alien.

The Guardian notes that during a recent Lord of the Rings cast reunion that took place remotely during the coronavirus pandemic, Holm wasn't able to join his co-stars but sent his well-wishes, saying, "I miss you all and hope your adventures have taken you to many places."