'A stalwart of stage and screen': Beloved Play School presenter and Australian actor Donald Macdonald dies after cancer battle
Australian actor, screenwriter and novelist Donald Macdonald, best known for his role as a presenter on ABC's Play School, has died following a battle with cancer.
He was 86 years old.
Macdonald was among the original faces of Play School when it launched in 1966, charming young audiences with his cheerful, engaging presence alongside co-stars including Don Spencer, Alister Smart and Lorraine Bayly.
News of his death was confirmed by entertainment reporter and close friend Craig Bennett, who shared a heartfelt tribute on Monday.
"One of our showbiz greats left us at 12:45am today," Bennett wrote, posting a carousel of photos of the late actor.
"Donald Macdonald was a stalwart of stage and screen… He was a dapper delight and always great company."
Bennett said Macdonald had faced cancer with "copious good humour" and was surrounded by loved ones in his final days.
"His cherished cousin Paula Duncan and Amelia Barrett have been in residence as his last days approached," he wrote.
"On Saturday we turned his hospital room into a party- laughs and smiles a-plenty- as Donald enjoyed some bubbly and lemon meringue pie!
"…Vale to a true gentleman."
After MacDonald finished up with Play School in 1969, the Sydney-born performer went on to star in his own TV series I Married a Bachelor, and made memorable guest appearances in Skippy the Bush Kangaroo, The Pathfinders, A Country Practice, Cop Shop, Skyways, Rafferty's Rules and Rake.
His film credits included Superman Returns and Kenny.
Beyond acting, Macdonald was an accomplished writer.
He penned the award-winning stage play Caravan- a classic Australian comedy about couples navigating life on the road, as well as Hot Taps, Giuseppe, Saints Alive, Seasons, Boulevard Play, and Truth.
He was widely respected in the arts community, earning an A.O. (Officer of the Order of Australia) in 1991 for his work as General Manager of the Australian Opera, and later an A.C. (Companion of the Order of Australia) in 2006 for his contribution to national life and creative industries, including public broadcasting.
Following the news, friends, family and fans have paid tribute to Macdonald's legacy.
"A sad day! Another stalwart of the Australian television industry has left us…," one commenter wrote on Facebook.
"My condolences to all his dear friends and family. Donald was unique in our industry and such a gentleman," added another.
Actress Antonia Murphy recalled working with Macdonald on the first national tour of Caravan.
"A very good man… was honoured to be part of the first national tour of Caravan. Some wonderful memories. Sending love to you all," she said.
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