Chariots Of Fire star Ben Cross has died aged 72. The actor had been lauded for his portrayal of British Olympic athlete Harold Abrahams in the 1981 film, which won four Oscars including best picture.
He also played Sarek in the 2009 reboot film Star Trek. Mr Cross died early on Tuesday morning in Vienna, his family confirmed to Deadline.
A statement from his representatives said: ‘Ben passed away suddenly today following a short illness. He had just finished shooting The Devil’s Light for Lionsgate and later this year will be seen in Last Letter From Your Lover in a leading role.’
Mr Cross, an English stage and film actor, married three times, and is survived by his wife Deyana Boneva Cross and his three children.
In October 2014 he had become a grandfather.
A post on his Facebook page, which claims to be written by his daughter Lauren, said Cross experienced a ‘rapid decline’ in the last week.
It said: ‘I am utterly heartbroken to share with you that my darling father died a few hours ago.
‘He had been sick for a while but there was a rapid decline over the past week.
‘The press will be announcing his death soon, I just wanted you all, his most loyal and loving fans, to hear it from us first.
‘Thank you for all your support over the years. He really enjoyed interacting with you.’
The actor was born Harry Bernard Cross, in London, to a working class Catholic family, with Irish ancestry.
May his soul rest in peace, amen!