Richard Chamberlain: Movies & Box Office

George Richard Chamberlain, born on 31 March 1934, is an American actor and singer who first became popular in the role of Dr. James Kildare in the television series 'Dr. Kildare' from 1961 to 1966, being a teen idol during that period. Chamberlain's career skyrocketed as he bagged several roles in miniseries like 'Shōgun' (1980), 'The Thorn Birds' (1983), culminating in his acclaimed portrayal of Jason Bourne in the television film 'The Bourne Identity' (1988). A decade later, he made a return to Broadway with revivals of 'My Fair Lady' and 'The Sound of Music.

Born and raised in Beverly Hills, California, Chamberlain pursued a Bachelor of Art degree at Pomona College, graduating in 1956. He served in the United States Army from 1956 to 1958, where he attained the rank of sergeant. Moving into stage productions early on, he co-founded a Los Angeles-based theatre group, 'Company of Angels,' and began appearing on television in guest roles. During the late 60s, he moved to England to hone his craft and engage in repertory theater, where he notably starred opposite Katharine Hepburn in the film 'The Madwoman of Chaillot' (1969) and played the lead in 'Hamlet'. His portrayal of Hamlet earned him a Grammy nomination. As Chamberlain's film and miniseries roles continued well into the 1980s and '90s, he also made appearances in various television shows, showcasing his versatility as an actor.