Michael Pennington, Commanding Shakespeare Actor, Dies at 82
Michael Pennington, a prominent actor known for his work with the Royal Shakespeare Company, has passed away at the age of 82. He was recognized for his performances in Shakespearean roles and also appeared in the film 'Return of the Jedi.' Pennington's contributions to theater included founding a rival theater group, showcasing his dedication to the performing arts.
- ▪Michael Pennington was a mainstay of the Royal Shakespeare Company.
- ▪He founded a rival theater group later in his career.
- ▪Pennington appeared in the film 'Return of the Jedi.'
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| Original publisher | NYT — Arts |
| Canonical URL | https://www.nytimes.com/2026/05/21/theater/michael-pennington-dead.html |
| Publication time | Thu, 21 May 2026 19:52:25 +0000 |
| Retrieval time | 2026-05-21T20:01:35.710Z |
| Last seen | 2026-05-21T20:01:35.710Z |
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AdvertisementSKIP ADVERTISEMENTYou have a preview view of this article while we are checking your access. When we have confirmed access, the full article content will load.Supported bySKIP ADVERTISEMENTMichael Pennington, Commanding Shakespeare Actor, Dies at 82A mainstay of the Royal Shakespeare Company, he later started a rival theater group. He also appeared in “Return of the Jedi.”Listen · 7:10 min Share full articleMichael Pennington as King Lear with Lilly Englert as Cordelia at Theater for a New Audience in Brooklyn in 2014. “Mr. Pennington punctuates the expected blasts of rage with a quieter, introspective insight that is even more devastating,” a review in The New York Times said.Credit...Ruby Washington/The New York TimesBy Fred MonyakMay 21, 2026, 3:52 p.m.
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