Albert Finney, the acclaimed British actor of stage and screen who earned four Oscar nominations, has died at age 82.

Finney was known for his chameleon like work in "Erin Brockovich,""Big Fish," and"Tom Jones."

His family told told the Associated Press that he "passed away peacefully after a short illness with those closest to him by his side." The actor was diagnosed with kidney cancer in 2007, but continued to work, appearing in 2012's "The Bourne Legacy" and "Skyfall."

Finney's career spanned six decades, with a mix of stage, film, and TV credits. After training at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London, he joined the Royal Shakespeare Company.

His first film role came in 1960's "The Entertainer" with Laurence Olivier. He earned his first Academy Award nomination for Best Actor playing the title role in 1963's "Tom Jones" (which won Best Picture).

Finney was also nominated as a Best Actor for 1974's "Murder on the Orient Express," 1983's "The Dresser," and "1984's "Under the Volcano." He received a Best Supporting Actor nod for 2000's "Erin Brockovich," starring opposite Julia Roberts.

The actor also won a Golden Globe, Emmy, and BAFTA for portraying Winston Churchill in the 2002 TV movie "The Gathering Storm."

Finney is survived by his third wife, Penelope Delmage, and a son, veteran camera operator Simon Finney.