He has been described as ‘one of the greatest artists Australia has ever seen’
Australian Indigenous actor David Gulpilil has sadly passed away at the age of 68.
Best known for his roles in films such as Walkabout, The Last Wave and Crocodile Dundee, the actor had a career spanning 50 years.
In 2017, he was diagnosed with lung cancer.
South Australian Premier Steven Marshall paid tribute to the actor in a statement late on Monday, labelling Gulpilil as a “once-in-a-generation” talent.
“It is with deep sadness that I share with the people of South Australia the passing of an iconic, once-in-a-generation artist who shaped the history of Australian film and Aboriginal representation on screen – David Gulpilil Ridjimiraril Dalaithngu (AM),” Marshall’s statement said.
“David Gulpilil was from the Mandhalpingu clan of the YolNGu people, and was raised in the traditional ways in Arnhem land. In his later years he was a resident of Murray Bridge. He was a brother, son, friend, father, grandfather and husband.
“An actor, dancer, singer and painter, he was also one of the greatest artists Australia has ever seen.”
David Gulpilil Ridjimiraril Dalaithngu has died pic.twitter.com/BSkA5suUwz
— Tom Richardson (@TomRichardson) November 29, 2021
In his later years, Gulpilil was a resident of Murray Bridge south-east of Adelaide.
In 1987, the star was recognised in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List and awarded the Member of the Order of Australia.
Marshall said his thoughts were with Gulpilil’s family and friend and carer Mary Hood.
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