Richard Chamberlain, Icon of TV Mini-Series, Passes Away at 90

Richard Chamberlain, known as the "king of the mini-series," passed away in Waimanalo, Hawaii. His partner, Martin Rabbett, praised him as an "amazing and loving soul." Best known for iconic roles in Dr Kildare and The Thorn Birds, Chamberlain revealed his sexuality later in life in his memoir, Shattered Love.

 

Richard Chamberlain, the acclaimed actor best remembered for his roles in the classic medical drama Dr Kildare and the epic miniseries Shogun, has sadly passed away at the age of 90. His publicist confirmed the news to the BBC following his death late on Saturday night local time (10:15 GMT Sunday) in Waimanalo, Hawaii, after suffering complications from a stroke. Chamberlain was just hours away from what would have been his 91st birthday.

Longtime partner Martin Rabbett shared heartfelt condolences, describing Chamberlain as an "amazing and loving soul." He added, "Our beloved Richard is with the angels now. He is free and soaring to those loved ones before us," emphasizing that "Love never dies. Our love is under his wings, lifting him to his next great adventure."

Chamberlain's rise to fame began in 1961 with his portrayal of Dr. James Kildare, a role that made him a household name and teen idol as millions tuned in every week. His popularity was confirmed when he was voted the most popular male star by Photoplay magazine for three consecutive years in the mid-60s.

In the 1980s, he solidified his status as the "king of the mini-series," captivating audiences with his performances in Shogun and The Thorn Birds. The latter attracted 60% of the US television audience and garnered 16 Emmy nominations, establishing Chamberlain as a leading figure in television history.

Despite being recognized as a romantic leading man, details of Chamberlain's private life remained largely under wraps until he released his memoir, Shattered Love, in 2003, where he publicly acknowledged that he was gay. He reflected on the fear he felt about his sexuality derailing his career, recalling how he would escort glamorous actresses to red-carpet events while feeling the pressure to adhere to a certain public image.

Chamberlain's personal life included a lengthy relationship with actor-director Rabbett that began in the early 1980s. Although they separated in 2010, they maintained a close bond throughout the years.

Born on March 31, 1934, in Beverly Hills, Chamberlain experienced a mixed childhood. His father, Charles, battled alcoholism, later becoming an influential figure in Alcoholics Anonymous, while his mother, Elsa, was a homemaker. Initially studying painting at Pomona College, Chamberlain was inspired by a student theatre performance to pursue acting.

After being drafted into the US Army, where he served in Korea, Chamberlain returned to California to embrace acting, ultimately landing small TV roles before breaking out as Dr. Kildare. Later in life, he candidly reflected on his traumatic childhood experiences and the relief he felt in finally living authentically, free from the fear of judgment regarding his sexual orientation.