"Very Much Shocked by the Death" [HOUN]

Fans of Sherlock Holmes and of the stage will no doubt be saddened and shocked to learn of the death of Ian Richardson [IMBD profile]. Richardson, known for his sonorous voice and commanding presence died suddenly at the age of 72. Details of his death are available from the BBC.

Personally, I have to admit that I'm devastated - Richardson was one of my favorite British actors.

Hailing from Edinburgh, just like Conan Doyle, Richardson is known to Sherlockians for his portrayal of the great detective in two films, The Sign of Fourand The Hound of the Baskervilles; he also portrayed Joseph Bell, the medical professor of Conan Doyle who served as the inspiration for Sherlock Holmes, in Murder Rooms - The Dark Beginnings of Sherlock Holmes.

The role for which he'll probably be remembered best is that of Francis Urquart ("F.U.") in The House of Cards trilogy. He based his portrayal on Richard III and deliciously includes the audience in his Machiavellian scheming to rise to and maintain his position as Prime Minister.

"You may very well think that; I couldn't possibly comment."

It was just last week on "The Best of Masterpiece Theatre" - a countdown of the top 12 shows as voted by viewers - that he made an appearance related to House of Cards.

The world has lost a great actor and Sherlockians have lost a treasure. If you haven't had the opportunity of seeing Richardson's work - any of it - I highly suggest you take a look.