Game of Thrones star Ian Gelder dies at 74 after cancer battle as his husband pays emotional tribute

Game Of Thrones star Ian Gelder has tragically died after a battle with cancer at the age of 74. 

The actor's husband Ben Daniels announced the news on Tuesday evening as he took to Instagram to express his grief. 

Ian, who was best known for playing Kevan Lannister in the mythical series, was diagnosed with bile duct cancer last December.

The pair had been together since 1993 after meeting while working together on a production of Joe Orton's Entertaining Mr Sloane.

Ben, 59, wrote: 'It is with huge huge sadness and a heavy heart broken into a million pieces that I'm leaving this post to announce the passing of my darling husband and life partner Ian Gelder.

'Ian was diagnosed with bile duct cancer in December and yesterday he passed at 1.07pm. 

'I'd stopped all work to be his carer but neither of us had any idea that it would all be so fast.'

Discussing their strong relationship, Ben, who is also an actor, described Ian as his 'absolute rock' and the 'kindest, most generous spirited and loving human being'. 

He continued: 'He was my absolute rock and we'd been partners for more than 30 years. If we weren't together we spoke to each other everyday.

'He was the kindest, most generous spirited and loving human being. He was a wonderful wonderful actor and everyone who worked with him was touched by his heart and light.

'I honestly don't know what I'll do without him by my side. He coped with his dreadful illness with such bravery, with no self pity. Ever.'

Sharing a selfie on the pair he concluded: 'He was remarkable and will be so missed. This pic was taken at Christmas time after I'd got him out of hospital and even though he'd gone through the worst three weeks there you can still see his joy and love shining through.

'Rest well my sweet Chianni. Xxxx'

As well as his role as Kevan, which he returned to for Season five and six after an absence of three years, he is also known for playing Mr Dekker in Torchwood: Children of Earth.

Meanwhile back in 2019 he guest-starred as Librarian Scholar Charles in the BBC TV series His Dark Materials and in 2020 he made an appearance as Zellin in Doctor Who.

Rushing to send their condolences to Ben, family and friends flooded the comments with messages of support. 

Amanda Holden penned: 'Oh darling Ben' before adding 'Sending you so much love'.

American actor Matt Lanter wrote: 'My gosh Ben. There are really no words. All of my love to you today. Praying for your peace and comfort. Love you buddy.'

Actress Sarah Parish commented: 'Oh my darling. I’m so terribly sorry to hear this. What a fabulous man he was. I’m sending you all my love, strength and prayers.'

Fellow Torchwood actor Burn Gorman added: 'Oh Ben. I’m so sorry. Really thinking of you at this sad time and sending so much love.'

Masters Of Air star James Murray wrote: 'Thanks for sharing these heartfelt & beautiful words that I’m sure don’t even touch the sides of your grief, but certainly communicate the deep love you shared.

'Such an inspirational relationship lights up the sky for all of us. All love and deep condolences xxxx'.