Game of Thrones star Ian Gelder dies at 74 after cancer battle as his husband pays emotional tribute
Game Of Thrones star Ian Gelder has tragically passed away after a battle with cancer at the age of 74.
The actor’s husband, Ben Daniels, announced the news on Tuesday evening when he expressed his sadness on Instagram.
Ian, who was best known for his role as Kevan Lannister in the mythical series, was diagnosed with bile duct cancer last December.
The pair had been together since 1993 after meeting while working together on a production of Joe Orton’s Entertaining Mr Sloane.
Ben wrote: ‘It is with great sadness and a heavy heart that has been shattered into a million pieces that I leave this post to announce the passing of my dear husband and life partner Ian Gelder.
Game of Thrones star Ian Gelder has died aged 74 after battling cancer – as husband pays emotional tribute
The actor’s husband, Ben Daniels, announced the news on Tuesday evening when he expressed his sadness on Instagram
‘Ian was diagnosed with bile duct cancer in December and passed away at 1.07pm yesterday.
“I had stopped all work to care for him, but neither of us had any idea it would all happen so quickly.”
Discussing their strong relationship, Ben described Ian as his “absolute rock” and the “kindest, most generous, temperamental and loving human being.”
He continued: “He was my absolute rock and we were partners for over thirty years. When we weren’t together, we spoke every day.
“He was the kindest, most generous, vibrant and loving human being. He was a great actor and everyone who worked with him was touched by his heart and light.
“I honestly don’t know what to do without him by my side. He dealt with his terrible illness with such courage, without self-pity. Ever.’
Sharing a selfie of the pair, he concluded: ‘He was remarkable and will be so missed. This photo was taken at Christmas after I got him out of hospital and even though he had been through the worst of three weeks there, you can still see his joy and love radiating.
‘Rest in peace, my dear Chianni. Xxxx’
The actor was diagnosed with bile duct cancer last December and died on Tuesday afternoon
Discussing their strong relationship, Ben described Ian as his ‘absolute rock’ and the ‘kindest, most generous, spirited and loving human being’
Ian Gelder and Christopher Godwin star in Something in the Air at the Jermyn Street Theater in 2022
In addition to his role as Kevan, which he returned to for seasons five and six after a three-year absence, he is also known for playing Mr. Dekker in Torchwood: Children of the Earth.
Meanwhile, in 2019 he guest-starred as Librarian Scholar Charles in the BBC TV series His Dark Materials and in 2020 appeared as Zellin in Doctor Who.
Family and friends rushed to send their condolences to Ben and flooded the comments with messages of support.
Amanda Holden wrote: “Oh dear Ben” before adding “Sending you so much love.”
American actor Matt Lanter wrote: ‘My god Ben. There are actually no words. All my love to you today. Praying for your peace and comfort. I love you friend.”
Actress Sarah Parish said: “Oh my love. I’m so terribly sorry to hear this. What a fantastic man he was. Sending you all my love, strength and prayers.”
Fellow Torchwood actor Burn Gorman added: “Oh Ben. I’m very sorry. I’m really thinking of you at this sad time and sending so much love.”
Masters Of Air star James Murray wrote: ‘Thank you for sharing these heartfelt and beautiful words that I’m sure don’t even touch the edges of your sadness but certainly convey the deep love you shared.
“Such an inspiring relationship lights up the sky for all of us. All love and deepest condolences xxxx’.