Actor Richard Chamberlain passed away on Saturday, March 29, at the age of 90. According to his publicist, Harlan Boll, Chamberlain died in Waimanalo, Hawaii, from complications following a stroke.
In a statement shared with Variety, Chamberlain’s longtime partner, Martin Rabbett, expressed deep sorrow: “Our beloved Richard is with the angels now. He is free and soaring to those loved ones before us. How blessed were we to have known such an amazing and loving soul. Love never dies, and our love is under his wings lifting him to his next great adventure.”
Chamberlain was best known for his iconic roles in Dr. Kildare, Shogun, and The Thorn Birds.
Born in Los Angeles in 1934, Chamberlain discovered his passion for acting while at Pomona College, where he was cast as Captain Bluntschli in Arms and the Man. After serving in the U.S. Army during the Korean War, Chamberlain returned to Los Angeles, co-founded a theater group, and made his television debut with a guest appearance on Alfred Hitchcock Presents in 1959. He later appeared in numerous guest roles and his first feature film, The Secret of the Purple Reef, in 1960.
Chamberlain’s big break came with his portrayal of Dr. Kildare on the NBC series from 1961 to 1966, earning a Golden Globe for Best Male TV Star in 1963.
In the 2000s, he continued to shine in guest roles on Nip/Tuck and Desperate Housewives. Beyond acting, Chamberlain was also a talented singer, achieving success with several top-ten singles. He published two books: his 2003 memoir, Shattered Love, and a 2012 collection of poetry, My Life in Haiku.
