Dr Kildare and Thorn Birds star dies at 90

RICHARD Chamberlain, the actor who set millions of pulses racing as dashing Dr Kildare, has died two days before his 91st birthday, it was announced yesterday.

- By Giles Sheldrick Chief Reporter

The US star was propelled to international fame by the 1960s medical drama leading to other hit TV lead roles including in The Thorn Birds and Shogun, both of which led to Emmy nominations.

He was also known for his film and theatre work during a glittering six decades long career.

Chamberlain died late on Saturday in Waimanalo, Hawaii where he lived after suffering complications from a stroke, his publicist Harlan Boll confirmed.

Amazing

The star's former partner Martin Rabbett called him an "amazing and loving soul", adding: "Our beloved Richard is with the angels now. He is free and soaring to those loved ones before us. Love never dies. And our love is under his wings, lifting him to his next great adventure."