Ray Stevenson has passed away aged 58
After 30 years of entertaining audiences around the world, Ray Stevenson has passed away at the age of 58. The Northern Irish character actor, known for films such as The Three Musketeers and his parts in the Thor franchise, died after suffering from an undisclosed disease, as confirmed by his publicist.
While no cause of death is yet revealed, reports suggest that Stevenson was hospitalised during filming on the Italian island Ischia. The actor’s death was announced four days before his 59th birthday.
Born in Northern Ireland, Stevenson felt a strong attraction to the performing arts and received a formal education in drama at the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School. Paul Greengrass’ 1998 comedy-drama The Theory of Flight marked his film debut, featuring Stevenson as a gigolo who is hired to aid Helena Bonham Carter’s character.
Stevenson began his film career working on epics like King Arthur before becoming the first film incarnation of Frank Castle in the film Punisher: War Zone. Although he had remained a character actor in movies such as The Three Musketeers, the actor went on to join the MCU when he began work on the Thor franchise.
The beloved actor had also turned in work on the small screen as well, playing bit parts in shows such as Murphy’s Law and Red Cap before having recurring appearances in series like Rome and Dexter. Since then, Stevenson’s most high-profile role was his performance in the film RRR, which was given critical praise last year and took home an Oscar for ‘Best Original Song’.
Reacting to the news of his death, RRR director SS Rajamouli paid tribute to Stevenson. He wrote: “Just can’t believe this news. Ray brought in so much energy and vibrancy with him to the sets. It was infectious. Working with him was pure joy. My prayers are with his family. May his soul rest in peace”.
In addition to film and television, Stevenson also delivered several fine performances in the theatrical domain. While he is known for his renditions of iconic parts like that of Jesus Christ, Stevenson’s most famous theatrical project was the 2003 production of The Duchess of Malfi at the Royal National Theatre, where he played the Cardinal.
Up until recently, Stevenson was also operating in the Star Wars universe, playing Gar Saxon in Star Wars Rebels and The Clone Wars. His most recent entry as Babylon in the Mandalorian spin-off series Ahsoka is set to be released posthumously.
Apart from his involvement in highly popular franchises, Stevenson also appeared in other interesting projects like Accident Man: Hitman’s Holiday, which will now be remembered as one of the final projects of his career. Directed by the Kirby brothers, the 2022 comedy stars Stevenson alongside the likes of Scott Adkins and Sarah Chang.
Tributes have slowly started to pour in for Stevenson, with James Gunn writing: “Damn. So sorry to hear about the passing, far too young, of Ray Stevenson. I only knew him a little from shooting post-credits of Thor 2 & a couple interactions at events, but we had some good laughs & he was a joy to work with. His friends & family are in my heart today”.
Scott Adkins added: “I’m shocked and saddened by the tragic news that a great actor and my good friend Ray Stevenson has passed away. I will miss you Big Ray! Life is short so make the most of it people”.
Gary Whitta took to social media to write: “Ray Stevenson was a fellow Brit and an absolute gent. Actors aren’t always friendly or approachable while they’re shooting but Ray always had time to chat and never failed to be gracious and kind. He treated me and my wife Leah at the premiere like we were family. I’m gutted”.
Stevenson is survived by his three sons and their mother, Italian anthropologist Elisabetta Caraccia.
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