Contents
Introduction
Arthur Hill, a renowned actor known for his significant contributions to stage, film, and television, lived a life full of noteworthy performances and accolades. However, his life was not without its struggles. The cause of Arthur Hill’s death was Alzheimer’s disease, a condition he battled for many years.
Early Life and Career
Born on August 1, 1922, in Melfort, Saskatchewan, Canada, Arthur Edward Spence Hill served in the Royal Canadian Air Force during World War II. After the war, he earned his degree from the University of British Columbia. Although he initially intended to pursue a career in law, he found his true calling in acting and never looked back.
Hill’s acting career began with radio plays for the Canadian Broadcasting Co. In 1948, he moved to England with his wife, actress Peggy Hassard. There, he worked for the BBC in radio plays as well as on stage and television. His stage work in Britain led to a New York production of Thornton Wilder’s “The Matchmaker,” which had originated in London. More American work followed.
Acclaimed Work and Recognition
Arthur Hill’s work was widely recognized and acclaimed. In 1962, he won a Tony Award and a New York Drama Critics award for his performance as George, the put-upon husband in the corrosive Edward Albee drama “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?” His other acclaimed stage work included a lead role opposite Ingrid Bergman and Colleen Dewhurst in Eugene O’Neill’s “More Stately Mansions,” the debut production at the Ahmanson Theatre in Los Angeles.
Television and Film Contributions
Hill’s contributions to television and film were equally significant. He appeared in more than 50 television series, including the title role in the series “Owen Marshall, Counselor at Law,” which aired on ABC from 1971-1974. His film work includes “The Ugly American,” “Harper,” the science-fiction thriller “The Andromeda Strain,” and the World War II ensemble “A Bridge Too Far.”
Arthur Hill’s Battle with Alzheimer’s
In his later years, Arthur Hill battled Alzheimer’s disease, a progressive disorder that causes brain cells to waste away (degenerate) and die. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia — a continuous decline in thinking, behavioral and social skills that disrupts a person’s ability to function independently.
Arthur Hill passed away on October 22, 2006, at a Pacific Palisades care facility after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease. His death was a significant loss to the world of acting and theatre, but his legacy lives on through his remarkable body of work.
Conclusion
Arthur Hill’s life was a testament to his passion for acting and his dedication to his craft. Despite his battle with Alzheimer’s disease, he left behind a legacy that continues to inspire actors and audiences alike. His story serves as a reminder of the human spirit’s resilience in the face of adversity. Arthur Hill’s cause of death, while tragic, underscores the urgent need for continued research and awareness about Alzheimer’s disease.
