Christopher Lee Dead: Acting Legend Famous For Playing Saruman In 'Lord Of The Rings' Passes Away At Age 93
Acting legend Sir Christopher Lee has passed away at the age of 93 from health complications.
Lee died Sunday morning at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital in London, according to a new report by The Guardian. The actor was hospitalized due to respiratory issues and heart failure.
Birgit Krøncke, his wife of over 50 years, told close family about Lee's passing before informing the public on Thursday.
Lee's career as an actor was a formidable one, with close to 300 acting credits in the film world. Some of his more famous roles include Dracula, a character he played in 10 different films, Count Dooku in two Star Wars films and the villainous Saruman in The Lord of the Rings and Hobbit films.
He was also a frequent collaborator with Tim Burton, costarring in such films as Sleepy Hollow, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Corpse Bride, Alice in Wonderland and Dark Shadows.
Lee's acting career began in the late '40s, and he continued working all the way up until now. He also released several heavy metal albums in his later years.
In a 2013 interview, the actor spoke about acting and how he never considered it to be a "job" in any way.
"Making films has never just been a job to me, it is my life," he said. "I have some interests outside of acting - I sing and I've written books, for instance - but acting is what keeps me going, it's what I do, it gives life purpose."
Lee's legacy is sure to live on for many generations.
