Richard Chamberlain became the golden boy after Dr. Kildare – this is him today, at 88
People all around the world, both young and old, fell in love with Richard Chamberlain when he rose as a popular actor in the 1960s.
In my mind, he was the single biggest heartthrob on television at the time, and had roles in numerous popular shows and movies.
Richard Chamberlain, circa 1960.
Silver Screen Collection/Hulton Archive/Getty Images
Chamberlain’s been through a lot in his life, including the weight of hiding a big secret for many, many years. This is him today at 88.
There are many things about the 1960s I never will forget. One of those things was watching TV. More specifically, my absolute favorite, Richard Chamberlain, playing the fabulous role of Dr. Kildare.
Chamberlain was perfect for the role – and I think this quote sums it up.
”The slim, butter-haired hunk with the near-perfect Ivy-League charm and smooth, intelligent demeanor, had the distaff fans fawning unwavering over him.”
Youtube/
Studio 10
Yes, I was one of those fans, and there were undoubtedly more like me, as Richard will confirm later on in this article.
Of course, Richard Chamberlain was more than just a handsome Dr. Kildare.
He portrayed several eminent characters but, at the same time, led a tough life. He loved the fame, but it was also something he couldn’t escape from.
Not only that, but he had been carrying the secret of being gay for a long time. This is the story of the wonderful Richard Chamberlain – and this is him today, age 88.
Richard Chamberlain – childhood
Richard Chamberlain was born on March 31, 1934 in Beverly Hills, California. As a child, Richard loved listening to the radio, particularly to radio dramas and mysteries.
He didn’t enjoy school, but at the same time didn’t think he had the courage to be an actor. That changed once he figured out his true life calling.
”We used to go to double-bills on a dime and I thought, ‘Whoa, that’s a good place to be—up on the screen,’” he recalled.
”I was always fascinated with the idea of being an actor. The problem was I was always a little withdrawn, shy, and not very sure of myself. But the people up on screen seemed so confident.”
Chamberlain attended Pomona College, where his interest in acting grew. He landed several roles in their theatrical productions, for which he was praised.
