You’ve probably read about it already but some very sad news has hit today: the legendary actor Sir Christopher Lee has passed away at age 93.
He had recently been hospitalized for respiratory problems and subsequent heart failure. He died on June 7th but his wife understandably delayed the announcement so that she could have time to tell family.
The incomparable star had a monumental career that spanned almost seven decades, racking up a staggering 200+ films in that time. His most famous roles remain as Dracula in the many Hammer Horror Film in which he so gloriously featured – even when they weren’t so good, he was always at least engaging if not outright fantastic in them – and as the treacherous Saruman in the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogy.
Other notable roles include as Count Dooku in the Star Wars prequels (can we all agree he was one of the best parts of those movies?), as Fransisco Scaramanga AKA the titular villain in Bond film The Man With the Golden Gun and as a cult leader in classic horror The Wicker Man.
The iconic actor was knighted back in 2009 for his services to drama and charity, thereafter being awarded the prestigious Bafta Fellowship award in 2011. In addition to his acting work, Lee was also a keen musician and singer, including (rather surprisingly) being involved with heavy metal music. The man really was unique.
Lee is survived by his wife of 54 years, Birgit Kroencke Lee, and their daughter Christina Erika Lee. He was truly one of the most legendary, singularly compelling actors ever to have graced our screens and he will be sadly missed.
R.I.P. Sir Christopher Lee.