Bernard Hill, known for roles in “Titanic” and “Lord of the Rings,” died Sunday at the age of 79.

His agent Lou Coulson confirmed the news to BBC.

Hill played Captain Edward Smith in the 1997 Oscar-winning film “Titanic” and King Théoden in the “Lord of the Rings.”

He was scheduled to appear at a comic-book event in Liverpool on Saturday but canceled per a statement from the convention.

“We’re heartbroken to hear the news of Bernard Hill’s passing,” the post read. “A great loss. Thinking of his family at this very sad time and wishing them a lot of strength.”

Hill had been working on the police drama “The Responder,” which will begin airing its second season on BBC One on Sunday.

Director Lindsay Salt paid tribute to him on Sunday, writing, “Bernard Hill blazed a trail across the screen, and his long-lasting career filled with iconic and remarkable roles is a testament to his incredible talent,” per The Hollywood Reporter

His breakout role was in BBC TV drama Boys from the Blackstuff, where he portrayed Yosser Hughes, a character who struggled – and often failed – to cope with unemployment in Liverpool.

Tributes to Hill have been coming in since the news of his death broke.

Writing on X, Scottish musician Barbara Dickson said he was “a really marvellous actor”, adding: “It was a privilege to have crossed paths with him. RIP Benny x.”

Mark Heim is a reporter for The Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @Mark_Heim. He can be heard on “The Opening Kickoff” on WNSP-FM 105.5 FM in Mobile or on the free Sound of Mobile App from 6 to 9 a.m. daily.