LOS ANGELES — The iconic star of the 1960s television series “Dr. Kildare,” Richard Chamberlain, passed away at the age of 90. He died on Saturday night in Waimanalo, Hawaii, after complications from a stroke, as confirmed by his publicist.
“Our beloved Richard is with the angels now. He is free and soaring to those loved ones before us,” expressed Martin Rabbett, Chamberlain’s lifelong partner, in a heartfelt statement. “We were truly fortunate to know such a wondrous and loving soul. Love never dies. And our love is under his wings, lifting him to his next great adventure.”
Chamberlain’s tall frame, classic looks, and romantic charm quickly made him a heartthrob among teenage fans when he played the compassionate doctor on the beloved TV show from 1961 to 1966. He was named the most popular male star by Photoplay magazine from 1963 to 1965. However, it wasn’t until 2003 that Chamberlain publicly acknowledged being gay, a fact that was known within Hollywood circles for some time. He made this revelation in his memoir, “Shattered Love.”
In 1978, Chamberlain earned the title “king of the miniseries” with his role in “Centennial,” a major production that ran for 24 hours and was based on James Michener’s novel. He continued his success with the 1980 epic “Shogun,” which was adapted from James Clavell’s novel about an American’s journey to Japan.
His greatest success came in 1983 with “The Thorn Birds,” an adaptation of Colleen McCullough’s best-seller. Playing Father Ralph de Bricassart, a Catholic priest in Australia entangled in a forbidden romance, Chamberlain captivated audiences alongside co-stars such as Rachel Ward and Barbara Stanwyck. The ABC production attracted a staggering 100 million viewers.
Chamberlain won Golden Globes for his performances in “Shogun” and “The Thorn Birds,” and he had previously earned one for “Dr. Kildare.” As audience interest in miniseries waned, he transitioned to theater, showcasing his singing talent in Broadway revivals such as “My Fair Lady” and “The Sound of Music.”
In addition to reprising his role in “The Thorn Birds: The Missing Years” in 1996, Chamberlain appeared in numerous films including roles in “The Music Lovers,” “The Madwoman of Chaillot,” and the popular “The Three Musketeers” series.
The “Kildare” series, adapted from successful films from the 1930s and ’40s, cast Chamberlain into stardom with his all-American look, propelling the show and him into the spotlight alongside the contemporaneous “Ben Casey.”
Despite his fame, Chamberlain had to conceal his sexuality, often accompanying actresses to events to fulfill studio expectations. He faced persistent questions about his bachelor status with repeated answers about his busy schedule. “When I grew up, being gay, being a sissy or anything like that was verboten,” he once reflected in an interview.
His autobiography detailed not only his sexuality but also troubled aspects of his upbringing, including an alcoholic father. Writing the book was a cathartic experience for Chamberlain, who expressed relief at no longer needing to hide his true self.
Born George Richard Chamberlain on March 31, 1934, in Beverly Hills, the actor initially pursued painting at Pomona College. After serving in the Korean War, he turned to acting, making guest appearances on TV shows before landing the iconic role of Dr. Kildare.
Chamberlain faced typecasting challenges following “Dr. Kildare” but found opportunities in England, where he honed his craft and acted in Richard Lester’s films. In 1969, he took on the role of Hamlet in Birmingham and appeared in various TV adaptations.
He continued performing into the 21st century, making appearances on TV shows like “Will & Grace,” “The Drew Carey Show,” and “Touched by an Angel,” leaving a lasting legacy in both television and film.