[LukeB]

British-born stage actor Brian Bedford has died at the age of 80.

The Canadian-American star was known for his prolific work as a Shakespearean actor and director, but you may know him best as the voice of Disney's Robin Hood​.

Having battled cancer for over two years, his representative confirmed that he passed away on Wednesday (January 13).

Born in Yorkshire and having studied with the likes of Peter O'Toole and Albert Finney, he later acted and directed for 29 seasons at Canada's famous Stratford Shakespeare Festival. He performed works by Shakespeare, Chekhov and Molière among others.

He also appeared in 18 Broadway productions, and won a Tony for Best Actor in 1971 for Molière's The School for Wives.

On screen, he appeared in various shows including Coronet Blue, Cheers, Alfred Hitchcock Presents, Frasier and Black Jesus.

Bedford is survived by his long-time partner and husband, actor Tim MacDonald.