Trainspotting star Vincent Friell has died aged 64, his agent said today.
The Glasgow-born star’s breakout role came in iconic film Restless Natives, where he played Will, one-half of a criminal duo who became modern highwaymen.
He went on to portray the father of character Diane in Trainspotting and also starred as a property developer in an episode of Scottish sitcom Still Game.
Trainspotting star Vincent Friell has died aged 64, his agent said today. The Glasgow-born star’s breakout role came in iconic film Restless Natives, where he played Will, one-half of a criminal duo who became modern highwaymen. Above: Friell (centre) in Restless Natives
Fans and former colleagues paid tribute to Friell today. Former radio presenter Ronnie McGhie said: ‘I’m totally shocked to hear that Scottish actor Vincent Friell has passed away.
‘He was in many programmes, but it’s his performance in the movie Restless Natives that he’ll be remembered for. A wonderful film.
‘My thoughts are with his family and friends. Vincent, you shall be missed.’
Another fan said: ‘Dear Vincent Friell you were so great. Funny as anything and a really clever actor. Such a loss.’
Vincent Friell (right) alongside Joe Mullany in Restless Natives, which was released in 1985
Restless Natives became a cult classic after its release in 1985. Above: Friell alongside Joe Mullaney in the film’s poster
A third wrote: ‘Ah man Vincent Friell has passed. Restless Natives is one of the best films ever made. Such a shame.’
Rab C Nesbitt creator Ian Pattison worked with Friell when he appeared in the BBC comedy series in 1992.
He said in The Sun: ‘Vince did us the honour of appearing in the Eorpa episode of Rab C. Nesbitt.
He starred as a police detective alongside Ray Winstone and Peaky Blinders star Adrian Dunbar in TV film Tough Love in 2002
Friell starred as a property developer in an episode of Scottish sitcom Still Game
Friell also had roles in the theatre, including at the Young Vic in ‘Slab Boys’ in 1995
Still Game and Trainspotting star Vincent Friell has died aged 64, his agent said today
‘His passing has come as a huge shock to his many friends and work colleagues.
‘What comes over clearly is how respected Vince was, not only as an actor but as a funny, sensitive and caring human being.’
Friell also had roles in the theatre, including at the Young Vic in ‘Slab Boys’ in 1995.
He featured in episodes of Taggart and starred as a police detective alongside Ray Winstone and Peaky Blinders star Adrian Dunbar in TV film Tough Love in 2002.
