Actor Julian Sands Confirmed Dead 5 Months After Going Missing During Hiking

Hiker Reports Discovery of Hazardous Substance
Known to Enjoy Hiking Regularly

Julian Sands, a famous British actor who went missing after going hiking five months ago, has been confirmed dead at the age of 65.

Julian Sands Photo by AP Yonhap News

On the 27th (local time), the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department in California announced that the remains found three days earlier on Baldy Mountain in the San Gabriel Mountains of Southern California were identified as Julian Sands.

Earlier, on January 13th, Sands went hiking on the Baldy Mountain trail course about 80 km northeast of Los Angeles (LA) and did not return, prompting a search.

California authorities deployed more than 80 search and rescue volunteers and used helicopters and drones for the search operation, but faced difficulties due to worsening weather conditions.

Then, on the 24th, a hiker found human remains near the search area and reported it, leading to the recovery.

The San Bernardino County Sheriff stated in a press release, "We are investigating the cause of death until further test results are available," and added, "We want to express our gratitude to all the volunteers who tirelessly worked to find Mr. Sands."

Julian Sands Photo by Reuters Yonhap News

Sands debuted in the film industry in 1982 with 'Private on Parade' and appeared in dozens of films and TV dramas over 40 years.

He gained recognition for his excellent portrayal of the passionate dreamer George in James Ivory's 1985 film 'A Room with a View,' after which he moved to the United States and worked in Hollywood.

His major works include 'Warlock' (1989), 'Arachnophobia' (1991), 'When a Man Loves a Woman' (1993), 'Leaving Las Vegas' (1995), 'Millennium: The More You Ignore Me' (2011), and 'The Lying Game' (2019).

In a 2020 interview with The Guardian, he said, "I am happiest when I am at the summit of a mountain on a dazzlingly cold morning," and revealed that his greatest dream was "to reach the high peaks of the Himalayas like Makalu," showing his passion for hiking.

Sands' brother told the British publication Craven Herald & Pioneer in January, "(Sands) loved the Baldy Mountain range the most when he was in LA," adding, "He used to go there whenever he could."