LOS ANGELES – Richard Chamberlain, celebrated for his role in the 1960s television hit “Dr. Kildare” and later known as the “king of the miniseries,” has passed away at the age of 90.
Chamberlain's publicist, Harlan Boll, confirmed that the actor died Saturday night in Waimanalo, Hawaii, due to complications following a stroke.
With his striking looks and charismatic presence, Chamberlain quickly captured the hearts of teenage fans as the empathetic Dr. Kildare from 1961 to 1966. Photoplay magazine consistently recognized his popularity, naming him the most beloved male star for three consecutive years (1963-1965).
Chamberlain publicly acknowledged his homosexuality in 2003 through his autobiography, “Shattered Love,” confirming what had long been speculated within Hollywood circles.
In 1978, he cemented his status as the “king of the TV miniseries” with his starring role in “Centennial,” a 24-hour epic based on James Michener’s extensive novel. This success was followed by “Shogun” in 1980, another grand miniseries adapted from James Clavell's historical novel about an American in Japan.
His most significant miniseries triumph came in 1983 with “The Thorn Birds,” adapted from Colleen McCullough’s bestselling novel. Chamberlain portrayed Father Ralph de Bricassart, an Australian priest who falls for Meggie Cleary (Rachel Ward). The ABC production, also featuring Barbara Stanwyck, reportedly drew 100 million viewers.
Chamberlain's performances in "Shogun" and "The Thorn Birds" earned him Golden Globe Awards, adding to the one he previously received for "Dr. Kildare."
As miniseries lost popularity, Chamberlain transitioned to theater, showcasing his vocal talent. He played Henry Higgins in a 1994 Broadway revival of “My Fair Lady” and Captain von Trapp in a 1999 revival of “The Sound of Music.”
He revisited his role as Father de Bricassart in the 1996 TV movie “The Thorn Birds: The Missing Years.”
His film credits include “The Music Lovers” (as Tchaikovsky), “The Madwoman of Chaillot,” “The Towering Inferno,” and “The Three Musketeers” and its sequels.
The “Kildare” series was inspired by a series of successful films from the 1930s and 40s, originally starring Lew Ayres.
Chamberlain’s charming and all-American persona made him an instant star. “Ben Casey,” another medical drama premiering in the same season, also achieved great success, elevating Vince Edwards to stardom.
The "Ben Casey shirt" became a fashion trend, and theme songs from both shows entered the Top 40. There was even a song titled “Dr. Kildare! Dr. Casey! You Are Wanted for Consultation.”
In his memoir, Chamberlain revealed the pressure to conceal his sexuality. He often escorted actresses to premieres at the request of studio executives and evaded questions about marriage with the standard response: “Getting married would be great, but I’m awfully busy now.”
“When I grew up, being gay or anything like that was forbidden,” he stated in an interview. “I disliked myself intensely and feared this part of myself intensely and had to hide it.”
The book also detailed a difficult childhood and an alcoholic father, with Chamberlain expressing that writing the book relieved a significant emotional burden and allowed him to embrace his true identity.
“I played a cat-and-mouse game with the press. Game over,” Chamberlain said, referring to his long-term relationship with actor Martin Rabbett.
Born George Richard Chamberlain on March 31, 1934, in Beverly Hills, he initially studied painting at Pomona College. After serving as an infantry clerk in the Korean War, he pursued acting.
He studied voice and drama, and after a few guest roles and a part in the 1960 film “The Secret of the Purple Reef,” he landed the role of Dr. Kildare.
After “Dr. Kildare” ended, Chamberlain struggled to shed his association with the youthful doctor.
He moved to England to expand his career and refine his acting skills, appearing in Richard Lester's films: "Petulia" (1968), "The Three Musketeers" (1973), and "The Four Musketeers" (1974). They reunited for "The Return of the Musketeers" (1989), where he again played Aramis.
In 1969, Chamberlain starred in "Hamlet" at the Birmingham Repertory Company in England and in a TV adaptation for NBC. He also portrayed Octavius in a film version of "Julius Caesar" alongside Charlton Heston and Jason Robards.
He remained active in television well into the 21st century, appearing on shows like "Will & Grace," "The Drew Carey Show," and "Touched by an Angel."