Christopher Plummer, Iconic ‘Sound Of Music’ Star Has Died

Hollywood is in mourning today after the death of the Oscar-winning actor Christopher Plummer. He was best known for starring in the classic movie The Sound Of Music. He was 91 years-old.

The New York Post reported that Plummer died at his home in Connecticut with his wife, Elaine Taylor, at his side.

His friend and manager Lou Pitt said:

“Chris was an extraordinary man who deeply loved and respected his profession with great old fashion manners, self deprecating humor and the music of words. He was a National Treasure who deeply relished his Canadian roots. Through his art and humanity, he touched all of our hearts and his legendary life will endure for all generations to come. He will forever be with us.”

Plummer’s acting career spanned more than 60 years. He was especially known for his ability to master Shakespeare.

However, he will always undoubtedly best be remembered for portraying Captain Georg von Trapp in the 1965 classic The Sound Of Music alongside the legendary Julie Andrews.

In a 2009 interview, Plummer talked about his decades-long friendship with Andrews. 

“I’m very fond of Julie,” he told NPR at the time. “That’s the nicest thing that came out of that film for me. We have a true and great friendship. She’s an extraordinary woman, professional. I’m grateful to the film in many ways because it was such a success. It is not my favorite film, of course, because I do think it borders on mawkishness.”

Related: Julie Andrews Stuns Fans By Revealing She Was Caught In Compromising Position With Carol Burnett

His first role was playing Mr. Darcy in his high school production of Pride and Prejudice. “I was very lucky,” he says. “I went to work professionally when I was 18, and I did not look back.” His first love — other than playing classical piano, which he contemplated pursuing professionally — has been the stage. 

He’s starred in many stage and film productions. 

“I love my work. I love what I do,” Plummer said.  “And I’m so sorry for a majority of people who do not like their jobs, and can’t wait to retire, which of course, is death. I’ll never retire. I hope to drop dead onstage. That’s what I really want to do.” 

At 82 years of age, Plummer became the oldest person to ever win an Oscar when he took home the Best Supporting Actor award for his work in Beginners in 2010.

Tributes have been pouring in for Plummer since news of his passing was announced: 

Plummer never lost the passion he had for acting.

Related: Christopher Plummer Of ‘Sound Of Music’ Fame Defiantly Reveals Why He’ll ‘Never Retire’

“Acting is never boring,” Plummer said a few years ago. “We all pooh-pooh it from time to time, because it can often be hard work, but it’s never boring. Never.”

Plummer is survived by his wife Taylor, who he was married to for 53 years.