Very sad news.
Chariots of Fire actor Ben Cross has died at the age of 72 following a short illness.
Cross, who was best known for playing athlete Harold Abrahams in the film Chariots of Fire, passed away in Austria.
His daughter Lauren announced his death, after an unspecified illness, on Cross’s Facebook page.
“I am utterly heartbroken to share with you that my darling father died a few hours ago,” she said.
“He had been sick for a while but there was a rapid decline over the past week.
“The press will be announcing his death soon, I just wanted you all, his most loyal and loving fans, to hear it from us first.
“Thank you for all your support over the years. He really enjoyed interacting with you.”
Cross’s representatives said he had just finishing shooting horror film The Devil’s Light and later this year will appear in a leading role in the romantic drama film Last Letter From Your Lover.
After leaving the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts (RADA), he joined the Royal Shakespeare company and also starred in the musical Chicago.
It’s believed his role in Chicago earned him his part in Chariots of Fire, with the sporting biopic winning four Oscars.
Cross had many other film and television credits including A Bridge Too Far, The Flame Trees of Thika, Dark Shadows, First Knight and Banshee.
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