Ian Gelder – the British actor perhaps best known for his role in the hit HBO series Game of Thrones – has sadly passed away at the age of 74.
As reported by BBC News, the announcement of Gelder’s passing was confirmed by his husband, fellow actor Ben Daniels.
His doting husband revealed in a heartbreaking Instagram post that Gelder had passed away on Monday following a battle with bile duct cancer.
“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,” Daniels’ post began.
Adding that Gelder had been diagnosed with cancer in December, Daniels revealed that he was “stopped all work” to care for his husband.
“But neither of us had any idea that it would all be so fast,” he tragically wrote.
“He was my absolute rock and we’d been partners for more than 30 years,” the tribute continued. “If we weren’t together we spoke to each other every day.”
Daniels then described Gelder as “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,” the post contained. “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.”
Daniels then explained that the photo he had attached to the post was taken around Christmas time, after he had successfully got his husband out of the hospital. “Even though he’d gone through the worst three weeks there you can still see his joy and love shining through,” he wrote.
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The post has since been flooded with tributes from fans and fellow actors, including Richard E. Grant, who commented: “I am so SO sorry for the incalculable loss of your beloved Ian.”
Gelder’s Torchwood co-star Burn Gorman added: “Oh Ben. I’m so sorry. Really thinking of you at this sad time and sending so much love.”
Gelder will perhaps best be known to fans for his portrayal of Kevan Lannister in the beloved fantasy series Game of Thrones, where he appeared in five separate seasons of the show.
A talented star on the stage and both the small and big screens, Gelder’s acting career spanned decades.
From his roles in Torchwood and Doctor Who to appearances in Snatch and The Bill, Gelder undoubtedly entertained and captivated so many of us throughout his career.
In addition to his screen credits, Gelder made notable contributions to the stage, captivating audiences with his performances in productions like The Low Road and Titus Andronicus.
Our thoughts are with Gelder’s family, friends, and fans at this time.