Charlton Heston: 1924-2008

Legendary actor Charlton Heston, died Saturday with Lydia, his wife for 64 years, at his side at their Beverly Hills home, he was 84.

Reports indicate that for the past six years the Academy Award-winning actor had displayed symptoms of Alzheimer's disease.

Heston’s resume includes blockbuster heroic figures including Moses in The Ten Commandments, Michelangelo in The Agony and the Ecstasy, Judah Ben-Hur in Ben-Hur and Colonel George Taylor in Planet of the Apes.

Off-screen the actor was busy with the Screen Actors Guild, American Film Institute, political activism and the National Rifle Association.

In fact he will be remembered for hoisting a flintlock rifle over his head at the 2000 NRA convention, declaring that Al Gore would snatch away his Second Amendment right to bear arms only "from my cold, dead hands."

The following news release was issued overnight by Charlton Heston's family:

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BEVERLY HILLS, CA - Legendary actor, civil rights leader and political activist Charlton Heston passed away today, at the age of 84.

He died at his home with Lydia, his wife of 64 years, at his side.

Mr. Heston was loved by his two children, Fraser Clarke
Heston and Holly Heston Rochell, and his three grandchildren, Jack Alexander Heston, Ridley Rochell and Charlie Rochell.

The Heston family issued the following statement:

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 humor.

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.

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