Charlton Heston has passed away at the age of 84.
The Oscar-winning star of dozens of films, including Ben-Hur, The Ten Commandments, and Planet of the Apes, died at home after a struggle with Alzheimer’s disease. Lydia, his wife of 64 years, was by his side.
Heston’s family released the following statement:
To his loving friends, colleagues and fans, we appreciate your heartfelt prayers and support. Charlton Heston was seen by the world as larger than life. He was known for his chiseled jaw, broad shoulders and resonating voice, and, of course, for the roles he played.
“Indeed, he committed himself to every role with passion, and pursued every cause with unmatched enthusiasm and integrity. We knew him as an adoring husband, a kind and devoted father, and a gentle grandfather, with an infectious sense of humor. He served these far greater roles with tremendous faith, courage and dignity.
A World War II veteran, Heston got his start on Broadway, where he starred in Antony and Cleopatra before landing an attention-getting role in Cecil B. DeMille‘s The Greatest Show on Earth. His iconic performance as Moses in DeMille’s The Ten Commandments followed, as well as his Oscar-winning turn in William Wyler‘s Ben-Hur.
Heston is survived by his wife, two children, and three grandchildren.
Source: AFP
