Donald Douglas: Scottish actor who played Colin Firth's dad in Bridget Jones films dies aged 92 after 'short illness'
Scottish actor Donald Douglas, who was best known for his role in the Bridget Jones films, has died at the age of 92.
The actor is known to fans of the romcom franchise for his portrayal of Admiral Darcy, the father of Colin Firth’s character Mark Darcy. He appeared in three films in the beloved series - Bridget Jones’s Diary, Bridget Jones: The Edge Of Reason, and Bridget Jones’s Baby.
Douglas’s passing was confirmed in an obituary notice posted online, which read: “Dear family and friends, it is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Donald Douglas on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, in Albi.”
The actor, who was born and raised in Falkirk, passed away in France, where he resided for many years. Close friend Meredith Wheeler also posted a tribute to Douglas on YouTube, in which she said: “A tribute to our dear friend, Donald Douglas, who left the stage in mid-January 2026 while hospitalized in Albi, France, after a short illness. He was 92 years old.”
She added: “Donald was talented in so many ways apart from acting and performing. A playful and gifted artist, he worked with all kinds of media, from sculpture to paint. He was an expert in ceramic restoration. He laid a beautiful table and was a fabulous cook. It was a joy to attend a meal at his beautiful home with his partner, Emma Temple.
“He was a great equestrian along with Emma and loved his dogs. His gardening was stunning as the montage illustrates. He had an impish sense of humor and a generous heart. He is survived by Emma, and three beautiful daughters--Amy, Liza and Jodie--along with five grandchildren.
“He was much loved and appreciated by his community in the Tarn where he operated an English-speaking theatre for many years, performing, directing and producing--adding to the cultural life of the region. Farewell, dear Donald. You will be greatly missed.”
Douglas had other notable roles, including portraying Captain Malcolm McNeil in the 1970s television series Poldark, and playing Peter Cunningham in 37 episodes of the Scottish soap opera Take The High Road. He also made brief appearances in shows such as EastEnders, Casualty, Poirot, Doctor Who, The Avengers, Taggart, Kavanagh QC, The Crown, and Monarch of the Glen among many others.