Charlton Heston Dead at 84

Charlton Heston died tonight at the age of 84:

BEVERLY HILLS, Calif. Legendary actor, civil-rights leader and political activist Charlton Heston passed away today, at 84. He died at his home with Lydia, his wife of 64 years, at his side.

Heston is survived by his two children, Fraser Clarke Heston and Holly Heston Rochell, and his three grandchildren, Jack Alexander Heston, Ridley Rochell and Charlie Rochell. A private memorial service will be held.

In the days to come, much will be remembered and written about him and deservedly so.

Of course, he'll be immortalized as Moses, from one his his best known roles in The Ten Commandments (1956), but mainly he'll just be remembered for being one of the good guys.

He'll be missed.

Here is a statement by the family of Charlton Heston:

"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:

MPTF
22212 Ventura Boulevard, Suite 300
Woodland Hills, CA 91364
www.mptvfund.org

Much more here with good pics and some YouTube clips.

Here's a great tribute from The American Spectator.

Here's a good obit! Heston is remembered on The Times Onlinene.