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BORN
1925
DIED
2015
George Cole Obituary
Cole's career spanned more than 70 years from his first stage appearance in 1939 and included more than 40 films, including "Cleopatra," with Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor. From 1979-1994 he starred as cigar-smoking, Jaguar-driving Arthur Daley on ITV's "Minder."
Set in London's criminal underworld, "Minder" followed the adventures of a small-time crook always on the lookout for his next dodgy deal. Cole's shifty but ambitious character captured the money-conscious spirit of Britain in the 1980s, and he was twice nominated for best actor by the British Academy of Film and Television.
Cole was surrounded by his family when he died Wednesday at the Royal Berkshire Hospital after a short illness, said agent Derek Webster, who represents Cole's "Minder" co-star Dennis Waterman.
Born in south London, Cole started working when he was 14, appearing in the chorus of "White Horse Inn" in 1939. He starred with Alastair Sim in the 1941 film "Cottage to Let," in which he played a resourceful evacuee from wartime London who unmasks a spy. Sim, an older actor with an established career, took him under his wing and the pair appeared together in several films, including the 1951 version of "A Christmas Carol."
Cole also appeared in some 30 plays and numerous television series, including "Walt Disney's Wonderful World of Color" in the United States.
Tributes poured in Thursday, including one from Tony Hall, the director general of the BBC.
"George Cole was a wonderful actor and he has a very special place in the public's affection," he said. "He will be greatly missed."
Copyright © 2015 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Memories and Condolences
for George Cole
33 Entries
D. Lewis
October 8, 2015
George seemed like a very nice man & great actor. He will be missed.
My condolences to his family
Carol Fiset
September 23, 2015
I really enjoyed George's work & one of my favorites was the TV show Minder with Dennis Waterman, they made a great pair.
My thoughts are with his family.
Sincerely
August 23, 2015
To the family and friends of George Cole I am sorry for or loss. I hope that you take comfort in knowing that there is going to come a time when no one will say I am sick. Isaiah 33;24.
August 13, 2015
Watching Minder brings back Happy Memories loved it , Arthur Daley you were the best R.I.P XXX Andrea & Russ Woods Southport
Steve Green
August 12, 2015
George Cole was the most naturally gifted actor I've seen, I could watch Minder episodes all day long. A true legend. No doubt you'll be doing some dodgy deals in Heaven Mr Daley. You have left a legacy on this mortal coil that will last forever.............. "Heaven is your Lobster" :)
Steve Green (London)
Ann & Tony Warren
August 10, 2015
My husband and i watch minder every day and can't begin to tell you how much pleasure and laughter that the character George brings us.. We were very sad to hear of his demise but he leaves behind a wonderful legacy for years to come
cliff royle
August 9, 2015
Mr Cole very nice gent very good film and TV actor rip
cliff royle
August 9, 2015
Mr Cole very nice gent very good film and TV actor rip
L
August 8, 2015
My condolences to the Cole family.
We could have simply existed but the true God intended for us to be happy and joyful . So nice that Mr.Cole contributed to this. May the hope that the scriptures peomise give you hope and peace. 1Corinthian 15:26
alan Marshall
August 8, 2015
rest in peace george a great actor gone to all the stars above you be greatly missed i grew up whaching you George you gave me aspersion to work in television from Alan &warren in Manchester
August 8, 2015
Beloveds, I know he will truly be missed. My deepest condolences to all who knew him and loved him as we await the wonderful time when no one will ever again be sick . . .
-Isaiah33:24
Linda
August 8, 2015
The days ahead will be difficult, but the comfort from our heavenly father, friends and relatives can help ease the pain and sorrow you are experiencing. My deepest sympathy for your loss.
Nancy
August 8, 2015
May he rest in peace...he always made me smile.
Rae
August 7, 2015
I am sorry for your loss. God will soon end all sickness and death. How we look forward to that day.
J. Lewis
August 7, 2015
Cole family, I am very sorry for your loss. God's Word contains much encouragement in times like these. Please allow the promise found in John 11:21-26 to bring you comfort and hope during this difficult time.
August 7, 2015
Penny, Tara, Toby, Family,
Sorry for the loss of your dear loved one. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May the God who gives peace be with all of you. RO.15:33
Rodger Oudemans
August 7, 2015
A very sad loss of a very talented man. I grew up with 'Arthur' on the tele here in New Zealand and will always remember. Thoughts are with your family.
Paul Hainsworth
August 7, 2015
Rip George. The man who inspired me and others to be were I am today. A true legend.
Dwayne Bickham,Sr.
August 6, 2015
In God's care rest in peace
Ruby
August 6, 2015
I'm so sorry for your loss. May almighty God comfort you and your family.
August 6, 2015
Kind condolences to your family at this time of sadness. Please know that God cares and invites you to let him help you. Jeremiah 29:12
August 6, 2015
thanks for making this website to express our feelings. Great actor, moulded my life in many ways.I just wish I'd met him once. God bless.
ron devere
August 6, 2015
Thank you for years of fun,laughter and enjoyment.
R.I.P Arfur
Mary Green
August 6, 2015
You are Loved and miss. RIP.
Adrian Barnette
August 6, 2015
We'll miss you !
christopher stages
August 6, 2015
A sad day George was one of my favorite actors of all time. best of British a real class act I will miss him but never forget him
Zake Khan
August 6, 2015
My sincere condolences to George Cole family a great actor that I personally admired especially in Minder May God Rest him in peace a sad loss today
August 6, 2015
never meet George but every body totally understands this wonder full type of person that George ( Arthur ) was, god bless you my friend MM
rip George
August 6, 2015
An officer and a carsalesman.it's a dog job Terry.Rip George
August 6, 2015
I am so sorry for your loss. May the beautiful promise at Is. 25:8 provide a measure of hope and comfort during this difficult time.
Sincerely,
Ann
Schatzi
August 6, 2015
Flash Harry,young Ebeneezer Scrooge, and all the wonderful characters this man crafted! Reat in peace, Mr. Cole, and thank you for your talent.
Jimmie
August 6, 2015
My deepest condolences to your family may God comfort your hearts John 17 : 3 and proverbs 34 : 18
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