Rutger Hauer

Rutger Oelsen Hauer (23 January 1944 – 19 July 2019) was a prominent Dutch actor with an illustrious film career that spanned more than 50 years, encompassing over 170 roles. His career launched in 1969 with the title role in the Dutch television series Floris and rose to popularity following his leading role in Turkish Delight (1973), named the Best Dutch Film of the Century in 1999. After earning international recognition with Soldier of Orange (1977) and Spetters (1980), Hauer transitioned to American films with performances in Nighthawks (1981) and Blade Runner (1982). Hauer's portrayal of self-aware replicant Roy Batty in Blade Runner is still celebrated today. Other notable films include The Osterman Weekend (1983), Ladyhawke (1985), The Hitcher (1986), The Legend of the Holy Drinker (1988), and Blind Fury (1989).

In the 1990s, Hauer expanded his repertoire to include low-budget films and supporting roles in major films like Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1992), Batman Begins (2005), and The Rite (2011). His commitment to environmental causes, such as the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society, and his establishment of the Rutger Hauer Starfish Association, an AIDS awareness organization, depict his dedication to activism. His final years were marked by a return to Dutch cinema, earning him the 2012 Rembrandt Award for Best Actor for his performance in The Heineken Kidnapping (2011). Hauer was knighted in the Order of the Netherlands Lion in 2013.