Charlton Heston dies

A grieving couple move to a remote Irish village in the wake of their baby daughter’s death. They soon take in an orphaned autistic girl, only to become involved in a series of strange occurrences.

Oscar winning actor Charlton Heston dated late last night, he was 84.

The cause of death was not stated however a spokesman (Bill Powers) for the Heston family said he died yesterday at his home in Beverly Hills, California. His wife Lydia was at his side.

Charlton Heston won the 1959 best actor Oscar as the chariot-racing “Ben-Hur”. Other famous roles he portrayed include Moses, Michelangelo, El Cid and other heroic figures in movie epics of the ’50s and ’60s.

His film career spanned over 60 years, beginning in the  1940s in two independent films by a college classmate, David Bradley, who later became a noted film archivist. He had the title role in “Peer Gynt” in 1942; he continued working in cinema until 2003.

In 2002, Heston revealed that he had symptoms consistent with Alzheimer’s disease, saying, “I must reconcile courage and surrender in equal measure.”

Heston’s family released the following statement when announcing his death:

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 humour. He served these far greater roles with tremendous faith, courage and dignity. He loved deeply, and he was deeply loved.

No one could ask for a fuller life than his. No man could have given more to his family, to his profession, and to his country. In his own words, “I have lived such a wonderful life! I’ve lived enough for two people.”

A private memorial service will be held. The family has requested that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Motion Picture and Television Fund