Richard Chamberlain, the acclaimed actor renowned for his role as a charming doctor on television and later as a prolific figure in miniseries, has passed away at the age of 90. His publicist announced that Chamberlain died last Saturday in Hawaii due to complications following a stroke, just two days before what would have been his 91st birthday.
Chamberlain initially gained fame in the 1960s through his portrayal of Dr Kildare in the NBC series, which ran from 1961 to 1966. His performance earned him a Golden Globe award in 1963, solidifying his status as a heartthrob. In a 2021 interview, he reminisced about the overwhelming acclaim he received from his role, describing it as a dream come true.
Over the years, Chamberlain excelled in various capacities—actor, singer, author, painter, and soldier. His film career took off when he starred as Octavius Caesar in the 1970 adaptation of Julius Caesar, sharing the screen with icons like Charlton Heston. He also featured in notable films such as The Three Musketeers and The Towering Inferno.
In the 1980s, Chamberlain earned the title of “king of the mini-series,” starring in significant productions like Shōgun and The Thorn Birds, both of which garnered him additional Golden Globe accolades. He reprised his role as Father Ralph de Bricassart in a later TV movie adaptation of The Thorn Birds in 1996.
Chamberlain’s versatility extended beyond dramatic roles; he played Jason Bourne in the mini-series adaptation of The Bourne Identity in 1988, and continued to act in various films and television projects throughout the 1990s, including Birds of Prey and The Lost Daughter. He made guest appearances on popular shows like Will and Grace and Desperate Housewives in the following decades.
His final credited role was in the 2019 drama Finding Julia. In addition to his television and film career, Chamberlain briefly pursued recording music and had significant stage roles, including a portrayal of Henry Higgins in My Fair Lady.
Born in Los Angeles, Chamberlain spent his childhood in Beverly Hills. He graduated from Pomona College and served 16 months in the US Army during the Korean War, reaching the rank of sergeant.
Chamberlain leaves behind his partner, Martin Rabbett, who expressed a heartfelt tribute, stating that Richard is now with the angels and free, reflecting on the blessing of knowing such a remarkable individual.