PopHorror Let's Get Scared
Actor Ray Stevenson tragically passed away on May 21, 2023, after contracting a “mystery illness” while filming in Italy. Throughout his career, Ray has played several memorable roles spanning a wide variety of amazing projects. In honor of his legacy, I’d like to draw some attention to my five favorite parts he’s portrayed.
5. Porthos – The Three Musketeers (2011)
While The Three Musketeers was a very uneven film, Ray Stevenson was consistently solid and was the film’s heart. His portrayal of the likable brute, Porthos, is my favorite on-screen version of the character to date.
4. Dagonet- King Arthur (2004)
Dagonet may not have the most screen time in King Arthur, but he was easily one of the most memorable knights of the round table. From his fierce yet tender care of the child he rescued to his heroic sacrifice, his role has the most emotional weight in the film.
3. Titus Pullo – Rome (2005-2007)
Ray’s performance and chemistry with co-star, Kevin Mckidd were unforgettable in the acclaimed series, Rome. Their performances lead the gritty, realistic side of the series that will take you on a rollercoaster ride of emotions as you see a different side of the Roman Empire than what most films depict.
2. Big Ray – Accident Man 1 and 2 (2018/2022)
In a film surrounded by well-established martial arts stars, killer clowns, and trained assassins, Big Ray stands out as the most intimidating of all of them. He dominates any scene that he’s in with a charismatic figure that anyone would love to have a beer with but no one would want to mess with.
1. Blackbeard – Black Sails (2014-2017)
Black Sails is a show that is filled to the brim with excellent performances and it would be impossible to praise them all here, but Ray Stevenson as Blackbeard is one of those perfect casting choices that no one will ever be able to match. The show focuses on the proper, historical side of the character, rather than the legendary version that is usually depicted. Ray excels at bringing forth the cunning and fierceness Blackbeard was known for, but he keeps him human and makes him likable, he brings us Edward Teach rather than the monstrous Blackbeard.
Ray Stevenson can be seen in his two upcoming, and seemingly final times in Gateway to the West and Ahsoka. You will be missed.
