Actor Ian Gelder, who portrayed Kevan Lannister on HBO’s “Game of Thrones,” has passed away at 74 years old.
Gelder’s partner and fellow actor Ben Daniels announced his death on Tuesday. Instagram.
Ben Daniels expressed immense sadness and devastation as he announced the passing of his beloved husband and life partner, Ian Gelder. Gelder was diagnosed with bile duct cancer in December and passed away at 13:07. Daniels had stopped all work to care for him, but neither of them anticipated the rapid progression of the illness.
Gelder lost his battle with bile duct cancer after five months. The photograph shared by Daniels was captured following Gelder's release from a challenging three-week hospital stay last Christmas.
Daniels also spoke about Gelder, describing him as his unwavering support for over 30 years. He highlighted Gelder’s kindness, generosity, and love, and praised him as a remarkable and beloved actor who touched the hearts of everyone he worked with. Daniels expressed his uncertainty about a future without his partner by his side.
Daniels mentioned Gelder's brave battle with the illness, admiring his lack of self-pity and extraordinary resilience. He expressed deep sorrow over the loss and shared a photo taken at Christmas that reflected Gelder's enduring joy and love, despite the recent difficult hospitalization. He bid his husband farewell, referring to him affectionately as “Chianni.”
The late actor’s management team, DPA Management, also mourned his passing on their X account, acknowledging the honor of representing Ian Gelder in the latter part of his career. They described Gelder as a delightful person and an exceptional actor, and anticipated that he would be greatly missed by all who knew and worked with him.
Gelder is recognized for his stage work and his portrayal of Kevan Lannister in HBO’s “Game of Thrones.” He appeared in 12 episodes of the series from 2011-2016. Additionally, he had a recurring role in the “Doctor Who” spin-off “Torchwood” and featured in “His Dark Materials” and “State of Emergency.”
