Actor Jay Benedict, who appeared in a range of films and TV shows, from Aliens to Emmerdale, has died due to complications from coronavirus.

The actor, who also appeared in Batman film The Dark Knight Rises alongside Christian Bale and Tom Hardy, died on Saturday, aged 68.

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our dear client Jay Benedict, who this afternoon lost his battle with COVID-19. Our thoughts are with his family ❤️ — TCG ArtistManagement (@TCGArtist) April 4, 2020

A statement posted on his website said: "It is with profound sorrow that we must announce Jay's death on the 4th of April due to complications arising from a COVID-19 infection."

Benedict played Newt's father in Alien sequel Aliens alongside Sigourney Weaver in 1986, and starred in Emmerdale in 1997, playing businessman Doug Hamilton.

Shocked to hear one of our most brilliant actors and kind lovely man Jay Benedict has passed. Married to my lovely friend Phoebe Scholfield #AlloAllo My heart goes out to her and her family at this sad time #PhoebeScholfield @FreddieBenedict #LeoBenedict #SyncorSwim #COVID19 pic.twitter.com/YJ7nn25ftv — Vicki Michelle (@vickimichelle) April 5, 2020

During a career in entertainment spanning more than 40 years, he also appeared in UK TV favourites including The Bill, Jonathan Creek, Casualty and Foyle's War.


On stage, he starred in The Trial Of Jane Fonda, and Two-Way Mirror, alongside Abi Titmuss.

Born in California, Benedict's family left the US for Europe when he was a child.

As well as his acting career, he also lent his voice to video games and TV adverts - plus lifts, theatre foyers and other public spaces. "The irritatingly soothing voice requesting that you take your seat and switch off your mobile phone is quite probably him," his website says.

He also worked behind the camera, running post-production company Sync Or Swim, with recent projects including Downton Abbey, Dickensian and Call The Midwife.

Image: Benedict starred on stage alongside Abi Titmuss in Two-Way Mirror

Benedict is one of several famous faces who have died after contracting coronavirus.

British comedian Eddie Large, Fountains Of Wayne frontman Adam Schlesinger, US country star Joe Diffie and I Love Rock 'n' Roll songwriter Alan Merrill all died last week.

Other stars, including Tom Hanks and Idris Elba, have recovered after testing positive for the disease.