Ricardo Montalban: 'Fantasy Island' actor dies at 88

Ricardo Montalban: 'Fantasy Island' actor dies at 88

Ricardo Montalban, who was best known for his role of Mr. Roarke in the television series "Fantasy Island", died in his Beverly Hills home on Wednesday. He was 88.

Mexican born Ricardo Montalban's death was first announced at a city council meeting by president Eric Garcetti, who represents the district where the actor lived. Later, his son-in-law, Gilbert Smith said that he died "from complications of advancing age".

Gilbert Smith also said that the great actor was surrounded by his children and grandchildren. "He was in peace. He will be missed", added Smith.

Candy Spelling, wife of the late Aaron Spelling, said, "He was so gracious, and Aaron was always humbled by Ricardo's gratitude for 'Fantasy Island'. I miss him already, and wish his family well".

Ricardo Montalban began his career in the early '40s playing bit parts on Broadway and lead roles in films from his native country. In 1946, MGM brought him to Hollywood to be a romantic lead.

He was cast in the leading role opposite Esther Williams in "Fiesta" and starred again with the swimming beauty in "On an Island with You" and "Neptune's Daughter".

Ricardo Montalban had a long career in entertainment field but found broad fame as the faintly mysterious, white-suited Mr. Roarke of ABC's "Fantasy Island" in which he fulfilled the dreams of his guests with the help of his sidekick, Tattoo.

He was also well known for playing the villain in "Star Trek", both on television and in a feature film.

Publicist David Brokaw and longtime friend of Montalban said that the actor was "exactly how you'd imagine him to be" off camera. He also said, "What you saw on the screen and on television and on talk shows, this very courtly, modest, dignified individual, that's exactly who he was".

Ricardo Montalban had been a film star in Mexico before moving to Hollywood in 1946.