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Richard Chamberlain, the celebrated film and television actor, shared a long-lasting and affectionate bond with his partner of several decades, Martin Rabbett. While Chamberlain’s memoir, Shattered Love, published in 2003, served as the formal acknowledgement of his sexuality to the wider public, the actor noted it was already widely known within his close circles and in Hollywood. In a 2014 interview featured in The New York Times, the Golden Globe winner addressed the perceived necessity to uphold a “hetero heartthrob” persona.
Chamberlain reflected on societal norms during his formative years, telling The New York Times in 2014, “When you grow up in the ’30s, ’40s and ’50s being gay, it not only ain’t easy, it’s just impossible. You cannot do it.” He expressed that he internalized the belief that “being gay was the worst thing you can possibly be. I assumed there was something terribly wrong with me. And even becoming famous and all that, it was still there.”
Despite these challenges, Chamberlain discovered love with Rabbett, and their connection endured throughout his life. Continue reading to discover more about their enduring relationship.
Richard Chamberlain’s Career in Film and Television
Born in Beverly Hills, California, Richard Chamberlain’s career took off when he secured the role of Dr. James Kildare in the eponymous TV series, Dr. Kildare. This breakthrough role catapulted him to television stardom, leading to multiple Golden Globe Awards for his distinguished performances in acclaimed miniseries such as Shogun and The Thorn Birds.
Alongside his prominent television presence, Chamberlain also achieved success in cinema, securing roles in various noteworthy films. His filmography includes popular titles such as The Three Musketeers, The Four Musketeers, and The Return of the Musketeers. Further adding to his cinematic achievements were roles in King Solomon’s Mines and Lost City of Gold. Notably, Richard Chamberlain also holds the distinction of being the first actor to portray Jason Bourne, in the 1988 television film adaptation of The Bourne Identity.
Richard Chamberlain’s Marital Status
Richard Chamberlain never married. However, he maintained a committed, long-term partnership with Martin Rabbett starting in 1977. They ceased living together in the early 2010s, though their relationship evolved.
Who is Martin Rabbett?
Martin Rabbett is recognized as an actor, producer, and writer, according to his IMDb profile. While reports suggest a separation at one point, IMDb describes Rabbett as the “longtime companion” of the Dr. Kildare star, noting their relationship spanned “over 40 years.”
During his 2014 New York Times interview, Chamberlain, known for his role in Shogun, disclosed his relocation back to Los Angeles from Hawaii, where he and Rabbett had resided for three decades.
“We don’t live together anymore, and we’re much better friends than we’ve ever been,” Chamberlain stated, offering an unconventional perspective on relationships: “So, I’m in the business of advising people who are married, etc., to get another house.”
Following Chamberlain’s passing in March 2025, Rabbett shared a statement with Variety, reflecting on his former partner’s life. “Our beloved Richard is with the angels now,” the statement conveyed. “He is free and soaring to those loved ones before us. How blessed were we to have known such an amazing and loving soul. Love never dies. And our love is under his wings lifting him to his next great adventure.”
Richard Chamberlain: Did He Have Children?
Richard Chamberlain remained childless throughout his life.