British actor known for role in Dynasty dies

LONDON: British actor Christopher Cazenove, best known for his role in the glitzy 1980s American television series "Dynasty", has died after losing a battle against blood poisoning, his family said.

The actor, who died in hospital in London Wednesday aged 64, starred in a string of films and TV programmes during his career but will be best remembered for his short role as Ben Carrington in the US soap opera. "

"Chrisopher died peacefully on April 7 surrounded by his loved ones having contracted septicaemia at the end of February," said his family and girlfriend in a statement released through his agent, Lesley Duff. "Despite a valiant fight and the untiring efforts of the wonderful team at St Thomas's (Hospital in London), he was overwhelmed.

"All who knew and loved him will be devastated by the loss of this incredible man who touched so many lives." Septicaema is a bacterial infection of the blood, known commonly as blood poisoning. "Dynasty", which began in 1981 and went on to become one of the most popular shows in the US, chronicled the story a wealthy family in the oil business which was headed by powerful tycoon Blake Carrington.

Cazenove played Ben Carrington, Blake's vengeful brother, during his brief stint on the show that made him a household name. The actor, who was born in Winchester, southeast England, starred in a string of British TV shows before making an impact on Dynasty. Cazenove also played John Thatcher, the father of the late Heath Ledger's character William Thatcher, in the 2001 film "A Knight's Tale." Although best known for his television work, Cazenove also worked extensively on the stage and in radio. He was married to British actress Angharad Rees for more than 20 years.