Scottish actor Donald Douglas, best known for his role as Admiral Darcy in the movie Bridget Jones, has died at a hospital in Albi, France, after a short illness. He was 92 years old. In an obituary notice posted online by the funeral home, the family confirmed: “Dear family and friends, it is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Donald Douglas on Wednesday, January 14, 2026 in Albi.” They also shared a link to give people the opportunity to plant a memorial tree in his honor.
His friend Merideth Wheeler paid a touching tribute to the star, posting a video on YouTube featuring the actor’s daily life and various roles. “Donald was gifted in so many ways beyond acting and performing. He was a playful and gifted artist who worked with all kinds of media, from sculpture to painting. He was an expert in ceramic restoration. He was a great cook. It was so much fun to join him for a meal in his beautiful home with his partner Emma Temple. He was a great equestrian along with Emma and loved dogs. His gardening was as beautiful as the montage.” He had a wicked sense of humor and a generous heart. ”
When the news became public, tributes poured in for the star. One fan wrote on X: “This great actor, whose credits include Doctor Who, Poldark, Blake 7, The Avengers, Taggert and Bridget Jones, was also a painter and sculptor. Rest in peace.”
On YouTube, fans reacted to the clip posted by Merideth. “This is such a beautiful, precious, beautiful eulogy, enough for a grown man to cry out to Donald Douglas, rest in peace,” one person commented.
Another chimed in: “What a wonderful tribute. He will be sorely missed, such a lovely person.”
Another added: “This is such a beautiful, precious, beautiful eulogy, enough for a grown man to cry out to Donald Douglas, rest in peace.”
Donald enjoyed an illustrious career alongside his role as Mark Darcy’s (played by Colin Firth) father in the first three Bridget Jones films. He played Lord Kemsley in the 1989 biopic GoldenEye, about James Bond creator Ian Fleming. He also appeared opposite the Fourth Doctor Tom Baker in the 1972 Doctor Who story The Sontaran Experiment.
He played Captain Malcolm McNeil in 1975’s Poldark, which led to a lifelong friendship with Robin Ellis, who played Captain Ross Poldark. The two also lived close together in southwestern France.
Notable big screen productions include 1975’s A Bridge Too Far and 2000’s Highlander: Endgame.
He is survived by his wife, Emma Temple, three daughters, Amy, Lisa and Jody, and five grandchildren.