Richard Chamberlain, Star of ‘Shogun’ and ‘The Thorn Birds,’ Dies at 90

Richard Chamberlain, the iconic actor renowned for his roles in the television miniseries 'Shogun' and 'The Thorn Birds,' has passed away at the age of 90. Chamberlain's death was confirmed by his manager, who stated that the actor died peacefully at his home in Los Angeles on March 30, 2025.

Chamberlain's career spanned over six decades, beginning with his breakout role as Dr. Kildare in the 1960s. However, it was his portrayal of Father Ralph de Bricassart in 'The Thorn Birds' and John Blackthorne in 'Shogun' that cemented his status as a television legend. These roles not only garnered him critical acclaim but also a massive following worldwide.

Beyond his acting prowess, Chamberlain was also known for his advocacy for the rights of the LGBTQ+ community. He publicly came out as gay in 2003, at a time when such disclosures were still rare among Hollywood stars. His openness helped pave the way for greater acceptance and visibility for the community in the entertainment industry.

• LGBTQ+
• Richard Chamberlain
• Shogun
• The Thorn Birds

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