The actor, who starred in the BBC sitcom as Victor Meldrew for 10 years, remains in hospital
Richard Wilson, who played Victor Meldrew for 10 years in the BBC sitcom One Foot In The Grave is in a stable condition after suffering a heart attack.
The 80-year-old went into cardiac arrest on Wednesday afternoon and was taken to hospital, The Guardian confirms.
Wilson’s agent, John Grant confirmed that the actor is now in a stable condition and remains in hospital.
Wilson, who also appeared in other shows such as Some Mothers Do ‘Ave ‘Em, Doctor Who and Mr Bean, initially turned down the role that he is now best known for.
This year, Wilson revealed why he had agreed to reprise his role as Victor at this year’s Edinburgh Fringe festival.
He was set to appear in I Don’t Believe it! An Evening With Victor Meldrew from 16th – 28th August, but the show has reportedly been cancelled.
“Of course, I now feel I’m far too old to play Victor, who is meant to be 60-ish,” he told The Stage in March.
“Last year I did a one-off fundraising show at the Sheffield Crucible, where I am an associate director, with Daniel Evans directing.
“I played Victor in the first half, using one of David Renwick’s scripts, then did a question and answer session as myself in the second. I can’t tell you how much the audience loved it.
“I had such a good time we decided to take it to Edinburgh. I loved doing it, so I guess I must miss acting.”
But while it was the role that he’s best known for, Wilson previously revealed how he nearly turned it down.
“I was in my early 50s and Victor was 60. I turned it down,” the RADA-trained actor said in July.
“I think Les Dawson was being considered. A very funny man – but I don’t know if he could have played Victor.”
Irish Mirror
