Stephen Greif, The Crown and EastEnders star, has died aged 78

Stephen Greif, known for his role on The Crown and iconic British shows like Coronation Street and EastEnders, has died at the age of 78.

The actor, who had a long stage and screen career, most recently played Speaker of the House Sir Bernard Weatherill in the Netflix drama in 2020.

"With great sadness we announce the death of our wonderful client Stephen Greif," his reps at Michelle Braidman Associates shared on Monday.

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"His extensive career included numerous roles on screen and stage, including at the National Theatre, RSC and in the West End," the post continued.

"We will miss him dearly and our thoughts are with his family and friends."

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Greif went to the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts and become a member of the National Theatre Company at the Old Vic and Southbank theatres in London.

His stage career officially began in the late 1960s with Britain's prestigious Royal Shakespeare Company.

He starred in several stage shows in the 1960s and 1970s and earned nominations for numerous awards, including an Olivier Award in 1979 for his performance as Biff in the National Theatre's Death of a Salesman.

He then made the jump to screen to appear as Travis in Blake's 7.

Greif also played pub owner Harry Fenning in the sitcom Citizen Smith, and appeared in British TV institutions like Coronation Street, EastEnders, and Doctor Who.

Tributes have been shared online for Greif by colleagues and loved ones.

"A rock-solid performer with a voice as liquid and deadly as molten lava. When it came to playing villains, he was unsurpassed. His acerbic wit and obvious intelligence made him a joy to direct. Thanks for the fun, Stephen," Doctor Who director Barnaby Edwards tweeted.

"Very sad to hear of the passing of Stephen Greif - such a phenomenal antagonist as Travis in Blake's 7, one part of a memorable career across film, TV and stage," Radio Times executive editor Morgan Jeffery wrote.

Actress Judy Jarvis shared: "Devastated to hear that the brilliant actor, & fascinating erudite man, Stephen Greif has died. I absolutely loved working with him way back in Citizen Smith, & especially catching up with him several times since. Condolences & sympathy to his family & friends."

The English actor, born in Sawbridgeworth, Hertfordshire, is survived by two sons.

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Title: Stephen Greif, The Crown and EastEnders star, has died aged 78
Sourced From: celebrity.nine.com.au/latest/stephen-greif-the-crown-eastenders-actor-dies-aged-78/ee36a1ed-b159-41e1-bf5f-ac82fc1c3b19
Published Date: Tue, 27 Dec 2022 02:12:00 GMT