Ian Gelder, best known for his role as Kevan Lannister in Game of Thrones, has died aged 74.
His husband, fellow actor Ben Daniels, announced the news in a heartfelt tribute to the late star on Tuesday, and described his “huge sadness” at the passing of his “darling husband and life partner”.
Gelder, who also starred as Mr Dekker in the BBC’s critically acclaimed series Torchwood: Children of Earth alongside roles in Doctor Who and His Dark Materials, had been diagnosed with bile duct cancer in December, Daniels revealed in a statement on social media.
Daniels, to whom Gelder had been married since 1993, said: “It is with huge huge sadness and a heavy heart broken into a million pieces that I’m leaving this post to announce the passing of my darling husband and life partner Ian Gelder.
Gelder’s husband Ben Daniels (left) posted a heartwarming photo of the couple from Christmas
PA/Instagram
“Ian was diagnosed with bile duct cancer in December and yesterday he passed at 1.07pm.”
“I’d stopped all work to be his carer, but neither of us had any idea that it would all be so fast. He was my absolute rock and we’d been partners for more than 30 years.
“If we weren’t together, we spoke to each other everyday. He was the kindest, most generous spirited and loving human being.
“He was a wonderful wonderful actor and everyone who worked with him was touched by his heart and light.
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“I honestly don’t know what I’ll do without him by my side. He coped with his dreadful illness with such bravery, with no self-pity. Ever. He was remarkable and will be so missed.”
Daniels, known for roles in The Crown, House of Cards and Rogue One: a Star Wars Story, posted a heartfelt photo alongside the announcement, which he said had been taken at Christmas “after I’d got him out of hospital, and even though he’d gone through the worst three weeks there you can still see his joy and love shining through… Rest well my sweet Chianni”.
Reacting to the news, Britain’s Got Talent host Amanda Holden said she was sending “so much love” to “darling” Daniels.
While 90210 and Star Wars: The Clone Wars star Matt Lanter said: “My gosh Ben. There are really no words. All of my love to you today. Praying for your peace and comfort. Love you buddy.”
A statement from the Royal Shakespeare Company read: “We are saddened to hear of Ian Gelder’s death. One of the most kind and gentle people in the business, Ian’s career spanned many decades.
“He was regular on the RSC stage from the 70s onwards, creating many memorable performances including his Antonio in the Merchant of Venice and Clarence in Richard II.
“Our thoughts are with his family and friends.”
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