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George Fenton, the 'Blue Planet' and 'Gandhi' composer who scored five Oscar nominations, dies aged 76

From the Newshound archive · first published 5 October 2026 · last updated 7 October 2026.

George Fenton and Trudi Styler. Fenton, who died unexpectedly in London aged 76, is survived by his wife Amanda, children Gemma, Grace and Bridget, and six grandchildren, his family confirmed.
George Fenton and Trudi Styler. Fenton, who died unexpectedly in London aged 76, is survived by his wife Amanda, children Gemma, Grace and Bridget, and six grandchildren, his family confirmed.

George Fenton, one of Britain's most prolific composers, died unexpectedly in London on Monday aged 76, leaving behind a career spanning film, television and theatre across more than four decades. His family confirmed the death, saying he is survived by his wife Amanda, ex-wife Jane, children Gemma, Grace and Bridget, and six grandchildren — and "a life of music."

Fenton earned five Oscar nominations, including for 'Gandhi', 'Cry Freedom', 'Dangerous Liaisons' and 'The Fisher King'.

He scored David Attenborough's landmark BBC documentary series 'The Blue Planet', 'Planet Earth' and 'Frozen Planet', winning BAFTAs, Emmys and Ivor Novellos.

Fenton was awarded a CBE for services to music in 2023 and had scored Ken Loach's 'I, Daniel Blake' and 'The Wind That Shakes the Barley'.

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