Ian Gelder, renowned for his portrayal of Kevan Lannister on the acclaimed HBO series “Game of Thrones,” has passed away at the age of 74.
In a heartfelt Instagram post, Gelder’s husband and fellow actor Ben Daniels shared the news of his passing, expressing immense sadness and describing Gelder as his “darling husband and life partner.” Gelder had been battling bile duct cancer since December, and Daniels remembered him as a remarkably kind, generous, and loving individual.
Throughout his extensive acting career spanning several decades, Gelder graced both the big and small screens with his talent, appearing in notable productions such as “Torchwood” and “Doctor Who.” However, his most prominent role came in the late 2010s when he joined the cast of “Game of Thrones” as Kevan Lannister.
Initially featured in a few episodes of the first season, Gelder’s portrayal of Kevan Lannister resonated with audiences, leading to his promotion to the main cast in the show’s fifth season. As the “hand of the king,” Gelder’s character wielded significant influence over the show’s fictional realm, marking a pivotal role in the series. In total, Gelder appeared in four of the show’s eight seasons, leaving a lasting impact on its storyline and viewers alike.
Beyond his television work, Gelder was a distinguished stage actor, gracing prestigious productions such as “The Merchant of Venice” and “Richard III” at the renowned Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC), showcasing his versatility and talent across different theatrical mediums.