The Irish actor Milo O’Shea has died, at the age of 86. The Irish Times reports that O’Shea passed away in New York, where he lived. He passed away yesterday (April 2, 2013) in hospital, after suffering a short illness. The Minister for Arts in Ireland, Jimmy Deenihan is quoted as saying “During his career in theatre and film, both at home and abroad, he is remembered for the quality of his performances in a range of challenging and often ground-breaking roles.”

Milo starred in an eclectic range of movies and TV productions, ranging from highbrow movies such as Ulysses to comedy capers such as the Carry On films. He had a number of guest roles in high profile shows such as Cheers and The Golden Girls. Deenihan added “Over his life, he reached the widest audiences from across the globe - on stage, on film, and on television - and was internationally recognised for the quality of his work. I would like to express my deep condolences to his family and to his many friends.” Fellow actor Eamon Morrissey said that O’Shea had been hugely helpful to young actors honing their craft.

O’Shea was born in Dublin, Ireland, but moved to New York in 1976. Hi is survived by his wife Kitty Sullivan - also an actor – as well as his two sons, Colm and Steven and his three grandchildren.