Oliver! actor Ron Moody dies at 91

Won a Golden Globe for his performance in the 1968 film

Moody as Fagin in Oliver! (Rex images)

Ron Moody, who played Fagin in the award winning Oliver! film, has died.

Moody, who was nominated for the best actor Oscar for his portrayal of Charles Dickens’s character in the 1968 film, died in hospital earlier today aged 91.

“Fate destined me to play Fagin. It was the part of a lifetime," he said of the role.

The British actor, who also won a Golden Globe for the same performance, also appeared in EastEnders as Edwin Caldecott and played a wizard in Disney’s A Kid in King Arthur’s Court.

Born Ronald Moodnick in Tottenham on 8 January 1924 to Jewish immigrants, his father would later anglicise his family name to Moody.

Moody initially intended to be an economist, only taking up acting in his late 20s. The BBC reports that the actor’s biggest regret was turning down an opportunity to play Doctor Who.

"He brought joy to his family and to the hearts of many and will be greatly missed. He was singing until the end," his widow Therese told reporters.