Richard Chamberlain, the iconic star of The Thorn Birds, passed away unexpectedly at the age of 90 on March 29, 2025. The sad news was announced by his publicist, Harlan Boll, in a statement to the BBC, which revealed that the actor had suffered a stroke at his home in Hawaii.
In a heartfelt message shared with People magazine, Chamberlain’s partner, Martin Rabbett, expressed his sorrow with the following words:
“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.”
Richard Chamberlain, who accumulated an estimated fortune of $25 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth, had also ventured into music with songs like “Love Me Tender.” In his tribute, Rabbett encouraged fans and admirers to make donations to Hawaii Humane Society and NPR.
Beyond his film and television work, Chamberlain garnered attention for his candid revelation of his sexual orientation in his memoir, Shattered Love. In an interview with Fox News approximately three years prior to his passing, he explained the hesitation he felt about openly discussing his identity, fearing its potential impact on his career.
He reflected on the challenges he faced during his career, noting that media scrutiny often led him to adopt a cautious approach concerning his personal life, stating:
“It was inhibiting. But I got used to it; it was just habitual to be sort of careful and on guard in certain situations. Yes, I would’ve been a happier person to be out and free and all that. But I already had so much to be happy about.”
Richard Chamberlain: A Legacy of Remarkable Achievements
The Waimanalo, Hawaii native built a vast fanbase over his lengthy career, showcasing his talent in numerous successful projects. His acting prowess was his primary source of income, allowing him to invest in luxurious real estate, including a stunning home in Kihei that he purchased for $3.5 million. This property was later sold for $13.8 million in 2011, despite being initially listed for $19 million. The lavish house featured multiple bedrooms, a spa, a library, and a screening room.
Chamberlain’s family background included a brother named Bill. He pursued a career in acting after completing his education at Pomona College and even served in the U.S. Army as a sergeant for 16 months after graduation.
Notably, he co-founded a theater group known as Company of Angels, marking the beginning of his professional journey with a special guest appearance on Alfred Hitchcock Presents. His breakthrough role came when he starred as Dr. James Kildare in the beloved series Dr. Kildare. He further captivated audiences with lead roles in productions such as Centennial, Island City, and Brothers & Sisters, while also making memorable guest appearances in classics like Gunsmoke and Riverboat.
Chamberlain’s filmography included prominent films like Petulia, The Three Musketeers, The Last Wave, Julius Caesar, The Pavilion, and Strength and Honour. As a singer, he released numerous songs, including hits such as “All I Have to Do Is Dream,” “I Will Love You,” and “True Love.”
For further insight into Richard Chamberlain’s remarkable life and legacy, you can explore his biography and career highlights online.