Ian Gelder was a British actor best known for his performances in “Game of Thrones,” “Torchwood: Children of Earth,” and “Doctor Who.”
- Died: May 6, 2024 (Who else died on May 6?)
- Details of death: Died of complications from bile duct cancer at the age of 74.
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Ian Gelder’s legacy
Gelder got his start on British TV in the 1970s, with early appearances on such shows as “New Scotland Yard,” “Play for Today,” and “Rumpole of the Bailey.” A breakthrough role came in 2009, when he played Mr. Dekker in five episodes of the “Doctor Who” spinoff “Torchwood: Children of Earth.” He returned to the “Doctor Who” universe later, when he had a Remnant voice role in a 2020 episode of “Doctor Who” plus played Zellin in an episode that year.
For many, Gelder was best known for his turn on the HBO hit, “Game of Thrones.” He played Kevan Lannister, younger brother of Lord Tywin Lannister, in a recurring role across four seasons. His other TV appearances included in “Poirot,” “Absolutely Fabulous,” “EastEnders,” “Snatch,” and “His Dark Materials.”
Gelder had roles in such movies as “Little Dorrit,” “King Ralph,” and “Surge.” He also had a long stage career, working extensively with the Royal Shakespeare Company and London’s Globe Theater.
Notable quote
“I was so delighted to get ‘Game of Thrones’ – it’s an absolute phenomenon and I am very proud to be part of it. The new age of television is really great for us actors. I used to call my agent and be told, ‘Sorry, it’s really quiet.’ But now, it’s so busy.” — from an interview for Essential Surrey & SW London
Tributes to Ian Gelder
Full obituary: The Hollywood Reporter
