Washington, Apr 6 : Actor Charlton Heston, who won the 1959 best actor Oscar as the chariot-racing 'Ben-Hur' has died at the age of 84.

The actor, who portrayed Moses, Michelangelo, El Cid and other heroic figures in movie epics of the '50s and '60s died on April 5 night at his home in Beverly Hills with his wife Lydia at his side, the Heston family said in a statement. No cause of death was released.

In 2002, in a moving videotaped announcement, the star had confirmed that he had been diagnosed with symptoms similar to those of Alzheimer's disease.

Heston won the Academy Award for best actor in 1959's "Ben-Hur."

"Charlton Heston was seen by the world as larger than life. He was known for his chiseled jaw, broad shoulders and resonating voice, and, of course, for the roles he played. Indeed, he committed himself to every role with passion, and pursued every cause with unmatched enthusiasm and integrity," People quoted the family statement, as stating.

"We knew him as an adoring husband, a kind and devoted father, and a gentle grandfather, with an infectious sense of humour. He served these far greater roles with tremendous faith, courage and dignity. He loved deeply, and he was deeply loved.

"No one could ask for a fuller life than his. No man could have given more to his family, to his profession, and to his country. In his own words: 'I have lived such a wonderful life! I've lived enough for two people'," the family statement said.

ANI