British actor Roger Rees has passed away following a short illness, he was 71 years old.

Rees, an acclaimed stage actor was most widely known for his recurring role on the TV series ‘The West Wing’ where he played British aristocrat Lord John Marbury.

He also has a recurring role on the TV series ‘Cheers’ playing the character Robin Colcord.

Live theatre is where the actor had his greatest success. Rees began his career with the Royal Shakespeare Company and he enjoyed a career in both England and the United States. He received a Tony award for his lead performance in The Life and Adventures of Nicholas Nickelby in 1982 and acted in the debut performance of Tom Stoppard’s ‘The Real Thing’.

In 2010 he impressed Perth audiences when he appeared opposite Sir Ian McKellen in ‘Waiting for Godot’ at His Majesty’s Theatre.

Rees made regular appearances in film and television including playing substitute teacher Mr Racine in ‘My So Called Life’ and he showed his comedy skills as the Sheriff of Nottingham in Mel Brook’s ‘Men in Tights’.

Most recently he appeared in the Broadway musical ‘The Visit’ opposite Chita Rivera, a show which only closed last month.

Rees passed away after a short battle with brain cancer, he is survived by his husband, playwright Rick Elise. The couple married in 2011.

OIP Staff

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