Richard Chamberlain

(1934-2025)

George Richard Chamberlain was an award-winning American actor and singer who became a teen idol for his role as Dr. Kildare in the 1960s NBC medical drama.  He later earned the nickname "King of the Miniseries" for his roles in The Thorn Birds, Shogun and Centennial.  Chamberlain was also a respected theater actor, playing Captain von Trapp in The Sound of Music on Broadway and Hamlet at the Birmingham Repertory Theatre.

Richard Chamberlain poses with his newly unveiled star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame during ceremonies on February 29, 2000.

Chamberlain is survived by his longtime partner Martin Rabbett who said in a statement, "Our beloved Richard is with the angels now.  He is free and soaring to those loved ones before us.  How blessed were we to have known such an amazing and loving soul.  Love never dies.  And our love is under his wings lifting him to his next great adventure."

RIP Dr. Kildare

Dr. Kildare

Circa 1961-1966

Dr. James Kildare received 12,000 fan letters a week!

Dr. Leonard Gillespie played by Canadian actor, Raymond Massey in a scene 

from 

Dr. Kildare.

 Circa 1964

Richard didn't come out as a gay man until 2003 when he was 68 years of age in his book titled Shattered Love: A Memoir

"When I grew up, being gay, being a sissy or anythinglike that was verboten.  I disliked mself intensely and had to hit it and became "Perfect Richard, All-American Boy" as a place to hide. I actually feel sorry for people who have a lot of illusions in their about what gay is.  I mean, I know some gay people who are really wonderful people. 'Handsome' means many things to many people.  If people consider me handsome, I feel flattered -- and have my parents to thank for it. 

Richard lived on the Hawaiian island of O'ahu and died at his home in Waimanalo on March 29, 2025.  Waimanalo means "good water".  Wai meaning (water) and "manalo meaning (good or pleasant).

Aloha