Sir Christopher Lee Passes Away

Sir Christopher Lee has died aged 93.

The London-born actor - who was best known for his role as Count Dracula in a string of popular Hammer Horror movies - died on Sunday (07.06.15) in Chelsea and Westminster Hospital after being treated for respiratory problems, his family confirmed.

In addition to his starring role as Count Dracula, Sir Christopher appeared in numerous other high profile parts, including Francisco Scaramanga in the James Bond film 'The Man with the Golden Gun' and Saruman in 'The Lord of the Rings' and 'The Hobbit' trilogies, as well as Count Dooku in the 'Star Wars' prequel trilogy.

The Brit was, in fact, among the highest grossing actors of all time and won a string of awards during his career, including the BAFTA Fellowship in 2011 and the BFI Fellowship in 2013.

Sir Christopher - who was knighted for services to drama and charity in 2009 - married Danish model Birgit 'Gitte' Kroencke in 1961 and the decision to delay the announcement of his death was because Birgit wanted to inform family members first.

The couple have one child together, daughter Christina Erika Carandini Lee, who was born in 1963.