Oscar-winner Mark Rylance’s younger brother ‘Jonno’ killed in horror cycling crash
Oscar-winner Mark Rylance has been forced to cancel shows after making a tragic announcement online.
Famed actor Mark Rylance has tragically announced his brother Jonathan ‘Jonno’ Waters has died after a cycling accident.
He was riding his bike in Oakland last Friday when he was hit by an oncoming car. He suffered severe head injuries and was treated at the scene by first responders before being rushed to hospital.
The 60-year-old died the next morning.
In a tribute posted online, Rylance explained he would not perform his play Jerusalem in London’s West End on the weekend.
“I am so sorry to tell you that on the 28th of May my dear brother Jonathan Waters was knocked from his bicycle and tragically died of his injuries,” he said.
“In order to attend his funeral in California, I unfortunately have to miss three performances of Jerusalem over Saturday 11th – Sunday 12th June.
“As I have no understudy to play the role Rooster Johnny Byron, sadly these performances have been cancelled.
“Sonia Friedman Productions, together with Nimax, are arranging additional performances at the end of the scheduled run to try and accommodate everyone who will be affected.
“I hope you understand my need to grieve my beloved brother and thank you for your support at this time. I hope you will be able to attend another performance of Jerusalem.”
Mr Waters had spent over 30 years in the US working at one of California’s most acclaimed restaurants, Chez Panisse.
It’s the second close family member Rylance has lost in recent years.
Rylance, who won the Best Supporting Actor Academy Award for Bridge of Spies, quit his role in the 2012 Olympics opening ceremony after the sudden death of his “beloved” stepdaughter.
Filmmaker Nataasha van Kampen, 28, collapsed from a suspected brain haemorrhage on a flight from New York.
Nataasha was the daughter of Rylance’s wife Claire van Kampen, and has known the actor since she was three. Her sister is award-winning actress Juliet Rylance.
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