The San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department confirmed the identification of Julian Sands' remains on Tuesday, bringing a somber end to the extensive search that began in January. Hikers discovered the remains on Mt. Baldy last weekend. The actor, known for his roles in films like "Warlock" and "A Room with a View," was 65 years old.
Authorities are still investigating the cause of death and awaiting further test results. They expressed gratitude to the numerous volunteers who dedicated their time and effort to finding Sands.
Sands, an avid outdoorsman, was reported missing on January 13th after he didn't return from a hike in the San Gabriel Mountains. The challenging terrain and severe weather conditions, including avalanches and heavy snowfall, hampered search and rescue efforts for months. Crews utilized helicopters, drones, and ground searches throughout the extensive operation.
Born in England, Sands honed his acting skills at the London School of Speech and Drama. His early career included television work alongside Anthony Hopkins and his breakout film role in the 1984 comedy "Oxford Blues." The same year, he starred in the Academy Award-winning film "The Killing Fields," where he forged a lasting friendship with co-star John Malkovich.
Malkovich spoke fondly of Sands, describing him as a close friend and recalling their time working together on "The Killing Fields." He emphasized their enduring bond and expressed sadness over the tragic event.
Sands' career spanned a diverse range of roles, from the controversial "Boxing Helena" to lighter fare like "Crazy in Love" and "Leaving Las Vegas." He also had a notable presence in television, with roles in series such as "24," "Smallville," and "Jackie Chan Adventures."
At the time of his disappearance, Sands had several projects in development. His family released statements expressing gratitude for the search efforts and acknowledging the outpouring of support. His son, Henry, later shared his realistic perspective on the challenging search conditions.
Sands is survived by his wife, Evgenia Citkowitz, their two daughters, and his son from a previous marriage.
