Hawaiʻi resident and “Dr. Kildare” star Richard Chamberlain dies at 90 in Waimānalo

Hollywood actor Richard Chamberlain, who was known for his leading roles as the heartthrob in “Dr. Kildare” and “Shōgun,” died on Saturday, March 29, in Hawaiʻi at 90 years old, as reported by the Golden Globes. He died at his home in Waimānalo, as reported by The Associated Press and Hawaiʻi Public Radio.

Chamberlain was known for his leading roles in “Shōgun” (1980), “The Thorn Birds” (1983), and "Wallenberg” (1985), as well as the original screenplay of “The Bourne Identity” (1988). Over the years, he was nominated for six golden globes, taking home awards for his performances in “The Thorn Birds,” “Shōgun,” and “Dr. Kildare.” 

"Our beloved Richard is with the angels now. He is free and soaring to those loved ones before us," said Martin Rabbett, his partner, in a written statement shared on social media and the actor’s website. "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."

Chamberlain was born in Los Angeles on March 31, 1934, according to the actor’s website. He grew up in Beverly Hills. He originally wanted to be an artist, but then moved to acting after he was cast as Captain Bluntschli in “Arms and the Man” at Pomona College, where “he brought the house down, on a college-level which led him to change career paths,” according to the actor’s website. After college, he enlisted in the U.S. Army, where he served 16 months in Korea and rose to sergeant.

His first television appearance was as a guest spot on “Alfred Hitchcock Presents.” A dozen other guest roles followed, according to his website. 

Read about Chamberlain and listen to his interview with the Golden Globes. 

Katie Helland can be reached at katie@alohastatedaily.com.