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Ray Stevenson, the Northern Irish actor who played the villainous British governor in RRR, Volstagg in the Thor films. Getty Images |
Ray Stevenson, a renowned character actor known for his outstanding
performances in movies such as "Punisher: Warzone" and the Indian blockbuster
"RRR," has sadly passed away at the age of 58. His representative confirmed
that he
passed away
on Sunday, just four days before his 59th birthday.
"The passing of the actor Ray Stevenson at the age of 58 was confirmed by his
publicist on Monday, with no cause of death given.
Ray Stevenson Dies at Rizzoli Hospital on Ischia Island
According to the Italian newspaper
Republica, Stevenson's death "occurred this morning at the Rizzoli hospital on the
island" where he is believed to have been filming Cassino on Ischia, just days
after being admitted for a reported mystery illness."
Ray Stevenson: Family and Children
Ray Stevenson, was previously married to actress Ruth Gemmell from 1997 to
2005, is survived by his two children, Sebastiano (aged 15) and Leonardo (aged
12), whom he fathered with his long-term partner, Elisabetta Caraccia.
Ray Stevenson's Early TV Career
He began his acting journey with roles in various TV miniseries in the 1990s,
including "A Woman's Guide to Adultery" in 1993 and "The Tide of Life" in
1996. Additionally, he starred in several TV movies such as "The Return of the
Native" in 1994 and "The Theory of Flight."
Stevenson's breakout role came in the 2004 film "King Arthur," where he
portrayed Dagonet alongside Keira Knightley and Clive Owen.
He went on to star in several other TV series and movies throughout the early
2000s, including the TV series "Rome," where he played Titus Pullo, and the
film "Punisher: War Zone," where he took on the lead role of Frank Castle.
In 2014, Stevensonplayed the character of Marcus in the first "Divergent" film
and continued to portray the role in subsequent franchise films such as "The
Divergent Series: Insurgent" and "Allegiant."
After his success in "Divergent," Stevenson appeared in the Marvel blockbuster
"Thor: Ragnarok" as Volstagg, alongside a star-studded cast including Chris
Hemsworth, Tom Hiddleston, Cate Blanchett, Mark Ruffalo, and Idris Elba. He
also lent his voice to the character of Gar Saxon in "Star Wars: Rebels" in
2016 and "Star Wars: The Clone Wars" in 2020.
One of his most recent and acclaimed roles was in the Academy Award-winning
film "RRR," where he played the character of Scott Buxton.
Stevenson was also set to appear as Baylan Skoll in the upcoming "Star Wars"
miniseries "Ahsoka" later this year.
Ray Stevenson's passing is a great loss to the entertainment industry. He will
be remembered for his remarkable contributions to both film and television,
and his talents as an actor will be missed. His legacy will continue to
inspire future generations of performers.
James Gunn, Co-Stars, and Fans Pay Tribute to Ray Stevenson
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. ♥️
— James Gunn (@JamesGunn)
May 22, 2023
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.
#RIP
#RayStevenson
pic.twitter.com/atcNWKLSYM
— Scott Adkins (@TheScottAdkins)
May 22, 2023
So sad to hear the news that Ray Stevenson, our Pullo in Rome, has passed
away. A brilliant, gutsy, larger-than-life actor who filled every part he
played right up to the brim. My thoughts are with his family, his lovely
wife Betta and their beautiful kids. What a loss.
— James Purefoy 🇺🇦 (@JamesPurefoy)
May 22, 2023
What shocking news for all of us on the team! 💔
Rest in peace,
Ray Stevenson.
You will stay in our hearts forever, SIR SCOTT.
pic.twitter.com/YRlB6iYLFi
— RRR Movie (@RRRMovie)
May 22, 2023
Gut punch this morning learning Ray Stevenson passed away. His truly haunting performance in Ahsoka has a gravity that stunned us all. A great loss of a veteran artist and the craft is poorer for his absence. pic.twitter.com/cuFHcg2fmu
— Kiner Music 🏳️⚧️ (@KinerMusic) May 22, 2023