Screen legend and all around inspiration to the human race, Sir Christopher Lee, has died. The actor was being treated for heart and respiratory problems at the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital in London before he passed Sunday morning. His family decided to withhold the news till today so those close to him could be informed. He was 93.
Lee had a long and legendary run in not only film and TV but in life. After serving in the Royal Air Force in World War Two, he began his acting career that would see him perform in over 250 films. Of those films Lee portrayed some of the most iconic roles film had to offer from Count Dracula to Saruman. He was fluent in over five languages including English and was a classically trained singer with a love for operatic heavy metal, which he would often perform. He was knighted in 2001 for his service to his country along with his contributions to charity and the dramatic arts.
Lee was still active in his 90’s, slated to perform in two films in the coming years. He once famously said of his refusal to retire, “I hate being idle. As dear Boris [Karloff] used to say, when I die I want to die with my boots on.”
Lee is survived by his wife of 53 years Birgit and his daughter Christina.
