Dear Watson: Edward Hardwicke dies.

[karadinart]

Notably portrayed Dr.Watson in the Granada series The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes with Jeremy Brett, (David Burke, who began the role, suggested his friend Edward as a replacement)

With Burke for 2 seasons and Hardwicke for 8 the character of Dr.Watson "was elevated from the bumbling comic relief character familiar to generations, and instead was rightfully reinstated as Conan Doyle's original vision from the canon. Brave, resourceful, intelligent and dependable to the end, the restoration of Watson's rightful character only served to enhance the brilliance of Holmes by underlining how his deductive methods granted him an insight above and beyond even as educated and intelligent a foil as his friend the good Doctor." (http://www.televisionheaven.co.uk)

Mr. Hardwicke also played in the film Love Actually with the current Dr.Watson of BBC's Sherlock - Martin Freeman.

Jeremy Brett stated that he thought of Edward as a 'true Watson' to him in friendship, so we console ourselves that this Holmes and Watson are together now. You are fondly remembered, Mr. Hardwicke.

http://www.thestage.co.uk/news/newsstory.php/32212/sherlock-holmes-actor-hardwicke-dies

thanks benandmartin  gloria_scott for links!