**Ian Bannen** (1928-1999) was a Scottish actor, known for his long and distinctive film and theatre career. His often understated and intense acting made him a respected character actor. He played a wide range of characters, distinguished by his authoritative presence and the ability to imbue even supporting roles with depth and complexity.

Among his most celebrated performances is his role in **_The Flight of the Phoenix_** (1965), which earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. He is also remembered for his role as an unsettling inspector in the cult film **_The Wicker Man_** (1973), and for appearances in hits such as **_From Russia with Love_** (1963), **_Gandhi_** (1982), and **_Braveheart_** (1995).

Bannen left an indelible mark on cinema thanks to his versatility and his ability to evoke both humanity and severity with equal mastery.