Actor Richard Chamberlain, known for ‘Dr. Kildare,’ dies at 90

Actor Richard Chamberlain, known for ‘Dr. Kildare: Richard Chamberlin, the Hollywood icon who began his career as a TV doctor and went on to become a master of the miniseries, died Saturday. Chamberlin, 90, died of complications following a stroke in Hawaii, according to his publicist Harlan Ball. It’s a tragic coincidence that he would have celebrated his 91st birthday on Monday.

From Dr. Kildare to stardom

Richard Chamberlin began his career in the 1960s and quickly won over audiences with his charming personality and acting skills. He played a young and talented doctor in the popular TV series “Dr. Kildare” which aired on NBC from 1961 to 1966. The show proved to be a worldwide hit and made Chamberlin a star overnight.

He was awarded a Golden Globe Award for this role in 1963. In an interview, he said about this show, “This show became very popular all over the world and for me it was like a dream come true.” After this show, his popularity kept increasing and he became one of the most popular actors in Hollywood.

A blockbuster entry in the world of Hollywood

After getting success in the world of TV, Chamberlin also made a special identity for himself in films. In 1970, he played the role of Octavius ​​Caesar in the famous historical drama “Julius Caesar”. In this film, he was accompanied by veteran actors like Charlton Heston and Jason Robards.

After this, he also acted in “The Three Musketeers” in 1973, in which he was accompanied by big stars like Raquel Welch and Oliver Reed. In 1974, he also appeared in “The Towering Inferno”, which was one of the Oscar-winning films of that year.

King of the Mini-Series

Chamberlin became known as the “King of the Mini-Series” in the 1980s. In 1980 he played the lead role in the hit mini-series “Shogun”, which proved to be extremely popular. His role in the 1983 mini-series “The Thorn Birds” was also well-received by audiences.

He was awarded Golden Globe Awards for both of these series. In 1996 he reprised his famous role as Father Ralph de Bricassart in “The Thorn Birds: The Missing Years”.

Jason Bourne and a return to modern TV

Chamberlin played Jason Bourne in the first TV version of “The Bourne Identity” in 1988. The character was later played by Matt Damon and became extremely popular.

He continued his acting career in the 1990s and 2000s and appeared as a guest star in films such as “Birds of Prey”, “The Lost Daughter”, as well as popular TV series such as “Will & Grace”, “The Drew Carey Show” and “Desperate Housewives”.

His last film was 2019’s “Finding Julia”.

Did wonders on stage too

Chamberlin made his mark not only in films and TV, but also in theater. He played the role of Henry Higgins in the famous play “My Fair Lady”. Apart from this, he also appeared opposite Mary Tyler Moore in the Broadway play “Breakfast at Tiffany’s”.

Personal life and military service

Richard Chamberlin was born in Los Angeles, California. He received a bachelor’s degree in arts from Pamona College. After graduation, he joined the US Army and served in Korea for 16 months, where he achieved the rank of sergeant.

Chamberlin was accompanied by his longtime partner Martin Rabbett, who delivered a heartfelt message upon his passing, “Our dear Richard is now with the angels. He is now free and going to join the loved ones who have left us. How glad we are to have known such a wonderful and loving soul.”

Conclusion

Richard Chamberlin was not only a brilliant actor but also a versatile artist. He made his mark in television, movies and theatre. His career achievements and his brilliant acting will remain an inspiration for generations to come. Hollywood has lost a shining star, but his memories and his work will live on forever.

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