OBITUARIES

'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory' Star David Kelly Dies at Age 82

by Ethan Anderton
February 15, 2012
Source: Variety

Over the weekend it appears news of the highly publicized death of Whitney Houston overshadowed the passing of another great talent. Variety has word that Irish actor David Kelly, likely best known for playing Grandpa Joe in Tim Burton's adaptation of Roald Dahl's classic book Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, has passed away. After working on stage, screen (both big and small) and even radio, the actor passed away on Sunday, February 12th at 82-years old. At the time of his passing, a cause of death was not announced, but after 82-years alive on this planet, a reason to leave it isn't really necessary. More below.

In addition to playing Charlie Bucket's grandfather, Kelly also famously rode a motorcycle nude in the 1998 comedy Waking Ned Devine. The actor also took small roles in The Laws of Attraction and the original The Italian Job with his last turn coming in 2007 in the fantasy film Stardust. In Ireland, Kelly made huge waves on TV in series like Ballykissangel, Strumpet City and even an appearance in John Cleese's "Fawlty Towers." Kelly is easily one of the more recognizable character actors to come out of Ireland and the Irish Film & Television Academy honored him with a lifetime achievement award in 2005, the same year that he landed the biggest role of his career in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. He will be missed. Rest in peace.

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