British actor John Hurt, known for 'The Elephant Man,' 'Alien' and more, dies at age 77

Sir John Hurt, British actor nominated for Oscars for his roles in The Elephant Man and Midnight Express, has died. He was 77.

Various British papers reported the news Friday afternoon, and his agent confirmed the news to the BBC and the Associated Press Friday evening. He was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2015.

Some of his most well-known roles were in the horror movie Alien and the sci-fi comedy Spaceballs. He was also well-known as the wand maker Ollivander in the Harry Potter films.

Doctor Who fans will recognize him as the War Doctor from the 50th anniversary special.

He was recently in Jackie and has a few films in post-production.

Hurt is survived by his wife and sons.

No one could have played The Elephant Man more memorably. He carried that film into cinematic immortality. He will be sorely missed.
— Mel Brooks (@MelBrooks) January 28, 2017

John Hurt was one of the most powerful, giving, and effortlessly real actors I've ever worked with. Remarkable human being. U will be missed
— Chris Evans (@ChrisEvans) January 28, 2017

Rest in peace, John Hurt. pic.twitter.com/98SndJJxyC
— 20th Century Fox (@20thcenturyfox) January 28, 2017

Oh no. What terrible news. We've lost #JohnHurt as great on the stage, small screen and big. A great man & great friend of Norfolk & #NCFC
— Stephen Fry (@stephenfry) January 28, 2017