British actor Julian Sands named as missing hiker in Southern California 

A man reported missing after going on a hike in southern California has been named as British actor Julian Sands. 

Sands, 65, had been hiking in the San Gabriel mountains and was reported missing on Friday – during bad weather that hit California. 

Police said ground rescue teams were pulled off the mountain last weekend due to avalanche risks but searches continue by drone and helicopter. 

Mr Sands has had roles in popular shows and movies including Smallville and A Room With A View.

In a statement shared with the PA news agency, the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s department said Mr Sands was reported missing at about 19:30 local time on Friday 13 January.

The statement said search and rescue crews “responded and began a search” but were hampered by the severe weather and trail conditions. 

“However, we continue to search by helicopter and drones when the weather permits,” the statement said.

Police say ground searches would resume when the weather improved and conditions were safer for the rescue crews.  

The force said it had responded to 14 calls on Mount San Antonio – known locally as Mount Baldy, and in the surrounding area over the past month. They have warned hikers to “think twice and heed warnings” amid the difficult weather conditions – floods, snow and landslides – that have battered California. 

Mr Sands has lived in Los Angeles since 2020 and most recently appeared in the drama Benediction, which also starred Peter Capaldi.