George Clooney leads tributes to co-star Tom Wilkinson as he dies aged 75 and is branded ‘one of the greats’
GEORGE Clooney led the tributes to Tom Wilkinson tonight following the news of his death.
The Hollywood actor described Oscar nominated Tom as the ‘epitome of elegance’ after starting opposite him in the drama Michael Clayton.
The British star, well known for his role as former steel mill foreman Gerald Cooper in the 1997 comedy film The Full Monty, died suddenly at home on Saturday at the age of 75, his family said.
George said of his death in a statement to Variety: “Tom made every project better. Made every actor better.
“He was the epitome of elegance and he will be dearly missed by all of us.”
His The Full Monty co-star Robert Carlyle said Tom will be missed as "one of the greats of not only his, but of any generation" in a touching statement this evening.
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Robert, who played leading man Gary "Gaz" Schofield in the classic comedy - said: "So sad to hear of Tom's passing.
"He'll be sorely missed by everyone who had the pleasure of working with him.
"Such a huge performer, a real titan of an actor, one of the greats of not only his, but of any generation."
Tom had recently reunited with his The Full Monty co-stars, Robert and Mark Addy, in a Disney+ series of the same name this year.
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The original comedy about an unlikely group of male strippers in Sheffield won an Oscar for best original musical or comedy score and was nominated for three others, including best picture and best director.
Tom's character played a critical role in the film as he was recruited to help the unemployed men dance ahead of them performing to a Tom Jones version of You Can Leave Your Hat On.
He would also take home the best supporting actor award at the 1998 Bafta ceremony for his role in the film.
His co-star William Snape, who plays Gaz's son in the film, said his death felt like losing a "brother".
In an Instagram post, William wrote: "I'm no good at this but feel like I need to say it. Today we lost a brother. What we all went through nearly 30 years ago changed so much about our lives but one thing remained. Us.
"Our full Monty family. And today we said good bye to one of them. Tom Wilkinson was hilarious, gentle, kind and generous with his time and talent. Rest in peace Tom. You will be sorely missed my friend."
Tom was nominated for Academy Awards for best actor in a leading role for In The Bedroom in 2001, and best actor in a supporting role for Michael Clayton in 2007 alongside George.
He also starred in the 2005 blockbuster Batman Begins as mafia boss Carmine Falcone.
Sissy Spacek, who was also given an Oscar nod for portraying Wilkinson's wife for In the Bedroom, said in a statement: "He was a brilliant actor and a very lovely man. We had a wonderful time working together."
Their 2001 film about how a married couple's life in Maine spins out of control was nominated for a total of five Academy Awards.
Among those paying tribute was singer Will Young, who recalled Tom coming to his aid when he was taking part in acting auditions.
Will, who has appeared in Mrs Henderson Presents, Marple and Highland Park, wrote on Instagram: "Goodbye friend. Funny, bloody smart, helped me with auditions along with (Diana Hardcastle) and what a terrific actor. British acting royalty I salute you dear Tom xxx."
Actor Aneurin Barnard, who starred opposite Wilkinson in Dead In A Week (Or Your Money Back), said he was "very sad" to hear of his death.
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On X, formerly Twitter, Tom wrote: "I had a very great time getting to know him and working with him. One of our wonderful legends that we say goodbye to. Bye for now Tom x."
While Ruby Rose, who appeared in SAS: Red Notice with him, shared a picture and wrote: “Very sad to hear the news. Rest in peace lovely Tom.”
