We got the sad news today that Rutger Hauer has passed away. The Dutch actor, writer, producer, director, and activist died in his Netherlands-based home after a short illness on Friday, July 19, 2019. He was 75.
Since the 1960s, Hauer has been featured in over 170 films, television shows, and video games. One of his most iconic roles was in Ridley Scott’s 1982 sci-fi epic, Blade Runner, as main antagonist Roy Batty. Following Blade Runner, Hauer went on to star in Eureka (1983), Ladyhawke (1984), The Hitcher (1986), Wanted: Dead or Alive (1986), Escape from Sobibor (1987), Blind Fury (1989), Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1992), Salem’s Lot (2004), Sin City (2005), Batman Begins (2005), Hobo with a Shotgun (2011), True Blood (2013-2014), Channel Zero (2018), and many other films and TV shows.
In addition to being in front of the of the camera, he had also taken on video game voice over work. This year saw the release of Square Enix’s Kingdom Hearts III, with Hauer voicing the role of Master Xehanort. The year prior, he was featured in Bloober Team’s psychological horror game, Observer, as Detective Daniel Lazarski.
Rutger Hauer was also passionate about the environment and his charity, which focuses on the fight against HIV/AIDS. The Rutger Hauer Starfish Association was established to raise awareness for issues surrounding the HIV/AIDS situation, and helping those affected by the disease, especially providing support to children and pregnant women. The charity has provided an official statement about their continued work with Hauer’s wife of fifty years, Ineke ten Cate:
We at Starfish will always cherish the many unforgettable memories we have of Rutger and his dedication to the Rutger Hauer Starfish Association. One of Rutger’s last wishes was that Starfish should continue its charity activity and its fight against the AIDS disease, and with Ineke’s precious help, involvement and direction we will follow Rutger’s wish and will do our best to carry on Rutger’s inestimable legacy.
We are forever grateful for the legacy Hauer has left behind and we offer our sincerest condolences to his family, friends, and fellow fans.
R.I.P. Rutger Hauer.