Spanish actor, film director and writer Fernando Fernan-Gomez (R) smiles after receiving an award from Spanish actress and president of the Spanish film academy Marisa Paredes in Madrid, June 5, 2001. Fernan-Gomez, one of Spain's most famous actors and directors, died in Madrid on Wednesday aged 86, Spanish media reported. [File Photo: Reuters/Andrea Comas]

Fernando Fernan-Gomez, one of Spain's most famous actors and directors, died in Madrid on Wednesday aged 86, Spanish media reported.

Fernan-Gomez, who was born in Lima, Peru while his actress mother was on tour there, made over 200 appearances in Spanish television series and films including Spain's 1992 Oscar-winning film "La Belle Epoque," which also starred a young Penelope Cruz.

During his 64-year career, Fernan-Gomez, received the Principe de Asturias prize six Goyas -- Spain's top film award.

He died after spending several days in hospital, newspaper El Pais reported on its Web site.

By Ben Harding and Andrew Roche