Actor Ian Richardson has died at the age of 72

Actor Ian Richardson has died at the age of 72

Actor Ian Richardson, has died suddenly at the age of 72.

According to his agent he had not been ill and had been due to begin filming an episode of ITV's Midsomer Murders next week. He died in his sleep at his London home in the early hours of Friday morning.

His recent London theatre credits include "The Alchemist" at the Olivier, NT and "The Creeper" at the Playbouse Theatre, both in 2006. "The Magistrate" at the Savoy Theatre in 1997.

He is best known for his TV work, including his portrayal of Francis Urquhart in House of Cards for the BBC. He also took leading roles in Porterhouse Blue, Gormenghast, Blunt and Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy. He recently appeared in the BBC's Bleak House and Sky One's Hogfather