John Edward Thaw (3 January 1942 – 21 February 2002) was an English actor. He became best known for his television roles starring as Detective Inspector Jack Regan in The Sweeney (1975—78) and as Detective Chief Inspector Morse in Inspector Morse (1987—2000). He also worked on stage and in films. For four consecutive years, Thaw was nominated for the BAFTA Award for Best Actor for playing Morse, winning in 1990 and 1993. In 1988, he was nominated for the BAFTA Award for Best Actor in a Supporting Role for the film Cry Freedom. In 2001, he was awarded the BAFTA Fellowship. (Via Wikipedia)