‘Blade Runner’ star Rutger Hauer dies at the age of 75 following a short illness
The actor also set up a charity dedicated to raising awareness of HIV and Aids
By Steve Brown
Words: Steve Brown
Blade Runner star Rutger Hauer has died at the age of 75 after a short illness.
The actor is best known for his role as existentially aware android Roy Batty in Ridley Scott’s 1982 cult classic Blade Runner and had an extensive career starring in the likes of Blind Fury and supporting roles in Batman Begins and Buffy the Vampire Slayer.
As well as being a prominent environmentalist, Hauer also set up an Aids awareness charity – the Rutger Hauer Starfish Association – which aims to help raises awareness of the HIV/Aids situation, focusing especially on support to children and pregnant women.
Sadly, last week on July 19, the actor passed away after a short illness according to his agent, Steve Kenis, who confirmed the news and said his funeral was held of Wednesday.
On the Starfish Association website, they paid tribute to their founder and wrote: “The Rutger Hauer Starfish Association announces with infinite sadness that after a very short illness, on Friday, July 19, 2019, Rutger passed away peacefully at his Dutch home.
“He leaves his beloved wife Ineke, after they have been together for fifty years.
“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.”
Watch his powerful monologue from Blade Runner below: