‘The Thorn Birds’ & “Shogun” Star, Richard Chamberlain, Dies At Age 90

Sad news in the land of Hollywood, as legend Richard Chamberlain, known for his work in miniseries like ‘Shogun’ and ‘The Thorn Birds’, has passed away at the age of 90. According to his rep, he died in Hawaii on Saturday, March 29, due to complications from a stroke.

Richard Chamberlain’s Road To Acting

While he was best known for his work on television, Chamberlain enjoyed a dynamic career that included roles on Broadway and in films.

He grew up in Beverly Hills and wanted to be an artist; however, once he attended Pomona College, he switched shifts and became interested in drama, leading him to his acting career.

Upon graduation, he joined the U.S. Army and served in Korea, returning to Los Angeles to study acting. He began his career with a number of guest appearances on shows, with the first one being on ‘Alfred Hitchcock Presents’ in 1959.

His “break out” role was in 1961 on a series called ‘Dr. Kildare’, which landed Chamberlain’s his first Golden Globe and five primetime Emmy nominations. The series ran from 1961-1966.

The Actor’s Legacy

Chamberlain had a celebrated television career, with roles in ‘The Bourne Identity’, as well as the aforementioned, ‘The Thorne Birds’ and ‘Shogun’; he won two Golden Globes for best actor for his work on the latter shows.

He also starred in some ‘70s movies including, ‘The Count of Monte Cristo’, ‘Julius Caesar’, and ‘The Three Musketeers’.

Chamberlain’s love of singing drew him closer to musicals and the stage, and had parts in ‘Tennessee Williams’, ‘My Fair Lady’, ‘The Sound of Music’, and ‘The Night of the Iguana’.

As his acting career wrapped up, Chamberlain also enjoyed guest appearances on popular television shows like, ‘Nip/Tuck’, ‘Will & Grace’, the 2017 revival of ‘Twin Peaks’, and ‘Desperate Housewives.

Chamberlain is survived by his long-time partner, Martin Rabbett.

On behalf of everyone here at CTS, we send out our deepest condolences to Richard Chamberlain’s partner, family, friends, loved ones, and fans, during this difficult time.

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