Richard Chamberlain, Beloved Shogun and Dr. Kildare Star, Passes Away at 90

Chamberlain made an indelible mark on television history with roles in Dr. Kildare and Shogun, later revealing his sexuality in a heartfelt memoir.

Richard Chamberlain, a celebrated actor best known for his significant roles in the iconic television series Dr Kildare and Shogun, has passed away at the age of 90. His publicist confirmed the news to the BBC, noting that he died late Saturday night local time (10:15 GMT Sunday) in Waimanalo, Hawaii, following health complications from a stroke. He was hours away from his 91st birthday.

Described by his partner Martin Rabbett as an "amazing and loving soul," Chamberlain's legacy will be remembered fondly. In his statement, Rabbett expressed his grief, saying, “Our beloved Richard is with the angels now. He is free and soaring to those loved ones before us.” He added a poignant reflection about love enduring beyond life, wishing Chamberlain a beautiful next adventure.

Chamberlain's ascent to stardom began in 1961 when he portrayed the character Dr. James Kildare in the series Dr Kildare, which was adapted from the classic film series of the 1930s and ’40s. His captivating performance garnered millions of viewers, establishing him as a beloved face on American television.

By the 1980s, Chamberlain had solidified his reputation as the "king of the mini-series," with notable performances in productions such as Shogun—where he played a western prisoner—and The Thorn Birds, where he depicted a conflicted Catholic priest. The latter series captivated a staggering 60% of the US television audience and received 16 Emmy nominations, further showcasing his extraordinary acting talents.

Throughout much of his earlier career, Chamberlain kept his sexuality private, denying he was gay in a 1989 interview. It wasn’t until he published his memoir, Shattered Love, in 2003 that he publicly acknowledged being gay. In the memoir, he shared the lifelong struggles he faced regarding his identity, advising other attractive leading actors to shield their sexuality from public scrutiny. He had a long-term relationship with actor-director Rabbett for over 30 years, though the two separated in 2010.

Chamberlain was born on March 31, 1934, in Beverly Hills, California, and leaves behind a rich legacy in the entertainment industry, celebrated for his talent, charisma, and powerful performances.