Director David Leland dies as Pierce Brosnan and Liam Neeson lead tributes
BAFTA-winning British actor and director David Leland has died aged 82. The star was known for a five-decade career where he wrote films Personal Services and Wish You Were Here and directed an Emmy-winning episode of Band of Brothers.
He passed away on Christmas Eve surrounded by his family. Tributes for the actor were led by James Bond star Pierce Brosnan, who was given his first stage opportunity by David in Tennessee Williams’ play The Red Devil Battery Sign.
He said: “David Leland holds a mighty place in my heart. I was just out of Drama Centre where David was also an alumni. It was the thrill of my young lifetime to be cast as McCabe, working with David and Tennessee.
“David will forever be an essential part of my story and of all who knew and loved him.” The star originally trained as an actor at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama.
He then co-formed the Drama Centre London before moving to the Crucible Theatre for stage management. David worked with Monty Python stars Michael Palin and Terry Jones and directed Victoria Wood’s first play, Talent.
He became a screenwriter for film and TV - working on Oscar-nominated Neil Jordan film Mona Lisa in 1986 and Made in Britain.
David also directed Liam Neeson movie The Big Man and 1998 blockbuster Land Girls with Rachel Weisz and Anna Friel. Liam Neeson said: “David was a dream to work with. He was a real collaborator; he genuinely loved and admired actors.
“We formed a close bond. I loved his mischievous sense of humour. You are always in my heart old friend. See you down the road.” After developing a close friendship with George Harrison, he worked as a director on the Beatles’ film Checking Out and Concert For George, which was released after the guitarist’s death.
Tributes have flooded in from the showbiz world following the heartbreaking announcement. Tim Roth, who starred in Made in Britain, said: “David was there at the very beginning of this crazy adventure.
“He changed my life, and I love him for it. I’ll keep him with me always.”