Veteran British star Bob Hoskins is retiring from acting after learning he is battling Parkinson's disease.
The 69 year old's representative announced the news on Wednesday (08Aug12), revealing the actor was diagnosed with the same degenerative condition as Back to the Future star Michael J. Fox last year (11).
A statement issued by his publicist reads: "Bob Hoskins wishes to announce that he will be retiring from acting, following his diagnosis of Parkinson's disease last autumn.
"He wishes to thank all the great and brilliant people he has worked with over the years, and all of his fans who have supported him during a wonderful career. Bob is now looking forward to his retirement with his family, and would greatly appreciate that his privacy be respected at this time."
Hoskins began his screen career in the late 1960s and became known for his performances in 1980's The Long Good Friday, which won him a Best Actor Oscar nomination, and Mona Lisa in 1986.
He also gained critical acclaim for his turn in 1988's Who Framed Roger Rabbit, in addition to appearances in Mermaids (1990) and the Peter Pan tale Hook (1991).