Patrick Godfrey, who appeared in Doctor Who, Les Miserables and the 1998 film Ever After, has died aged 93.
The news was confirmed by his agency, Markham, Froggatt & Irwin, following his death on Thursday (4 June).
“It is with great sadness that we can confirm Patrick Godfrey passed away last night,” they wrote in a statement. “He died peacefully at home surrounded by his family. Paddy was an exceptionally talented actor and a remarkable individual, and we will miss him greatly.”
Born in Finsbury, London, in 1933, Godfrey began his career 23 years later by joining the Radio Drama Company. He booked his first TV job in 1959, appearing in an episode of Sunday’s Child.
Over the course of his 70 year career, Godfrey too on small roles in films A Room with a View, Maurice, The Remains of the Day, Les Miserables and The History Boys.
One of his best known parts was that of Leonardo da Vinci in the 1998 Cinderella adaptation Ever After, in which he acted opposite Drew Barrymore and Anjelica Huston.
Godfrey also appeared in two episodes of Doctor Who – with William Hartnell in 1966 and later with Jon Pertwee in 1971. He also took on roles in Z-Cars, The Bill, Foyle’s War, Doc Martin and most recently, His Dark Materials in 2019 – his final on-screen credit.
On stage, Godfrey starred in The Life and Adventures of Nicholas Nickleby in 1981 and frequently performed at the National Theatre, taking on roles in Shakespearean classic As You Like It and Caryl Churchill play Here We Go. He also starred in The Importance of Being Earnest and Witness for the Prosecution on the West End.
American playwright Bill Rosenfield paid tribute to the actor, calling him a “prime example of what it it means to be a ‘working actor’”.
“Patrick was a wonderful man, a fine actor and a great friend. Rest in Peace dear man,” he wrote on Facebook.
Fans also remembered the veteran actor on social media, with one writing: “Patrick Godfrey was such a gift in Ever After as Leonardo da Vinci. What an inspired take on the Fairy Godmother.
“Another mentor figure a millennial girl like me so appreciated seeing onscreen. Thank you for making us wings.”
A second tweeted: “Sad news. Patrick Godfrey brought so much talent and grace to the screen. May he rest in peace.”
Godfrey is survived by his actor wife Amanda Walker and their children, Richard and vocal coach Kate.
