Tony Award-winning British actor John Wood – a familiar figure of film and TV for decades – has died at the age of 81.

Mr Wood appeared in dozens of films, taking roles in titles such as The Madness Of King George, Shadowlands, Chocolat and Woody Allen’s The Purple Rose of Cairo.

But it was his stage work that brought his biggest plaudits, including his 1976 leading actor Tony for Travesties – one of many appearances in a Sir Tom Stoppard production.

Mr Wood’s agent said he “died peacefully in his sleep”.

The Derbyshire-born star also spent time with the Royal Shakespeare Company, as well as London’s Old Vic where he appeared alongside Richard Burton.

He collected an Evening Standard theatre award in 1991 for his performance as King Lear and received two further Tony nominations for Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead and Sherlock Holmes.

Mr Wood – who studied at Jesus College, Oxford – landed an Olivier nomination in 1998 for The Invention Of Love.

TV roles were plentiful including roles in Kavanagh QC, The Canterbury Tales, Love In A Cold Climate and Lewis. Along with the star Patrick Macnee, he appeared in the 1960s TV version of The Avengers as well as the 1998 movie version of the series. He was made a CBE in 2007 for his services to drama.

A statement from his agent said: “John was a distinguished classical actor, who was much loved and respected by his colleagues, and will be greatly missed.” He is survived by his wife and four children.