Latest news with #TheWentworthSiege
Economic Times
24-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Economic Times
Australian Actor Gerard Kennedy dies at 93
Gerard Kennedy in The Wentworth Siege Critically acclaimed Australian actor Gerard Kennedy died on April 21, 2025, at age 93 in a care home in Gosford, New South Wales. His career in film and television lasted more than 50 years. Kennedy was born on March 8, 1932, in Perth, and he began acting in theatre before moving to television. He became known for his role as Kragg in the 1960s series Hunter . Originally written as a villain, the character was changed due to Kennedy's popularity. He won the 1969 Logie Award for Best New Talent. He was best known for playing Detective Frank Banner in Division 4 from 1969 to 1975. The role earned him two Gold Logie Awards in 1970 and also appeared in shows such as Tandarra, Against the Wind, Skyways, and The Flying Doctors. His film credits included Newsfront (1978), The Lighthorsemen (1987), Wolf Creek 2 (2013), and Underbelly (2008). His final acting role was in 2015 in the TV series Glitch . In total, he appeared in over 80 productions and won two Silver Logies and three Penguin Awards from the Television Society of Australia, recognizing excellence in performance and contribution to television. Entertainment reporter Craig Bennett and actor Liz Burch described him as quiet and respectful. Bennett recalled that Kennedy kept his awards out of sight and was not focused on recognition, and was easy to work is survived by his daughter, Chrisanya.
Metro
24-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Metro
Neighbours and Prisoner star Gerard Kennedy dies aged 93
Australian actor Gerard Kennedy has died aged 93. The award-winning star was best known for his parts in a number of soap operas in his home country – including Neighbours, Prisoner and Blue Heelers. A family friend confirmed in a statement: 'Vale Gerard Kennedy. 1932 – 2025. An iconic Australian actor of many decades. 'Well-remembered by Prisoner fans for his portrayal as terrorist Al in The Wentworth Siege episodes.' The two-time Gold Logie winner also had parts in Underbelly, Division 4, The Flying Doctors and A Country Practice. Born in Perth in 1932, he played six different characters in Crawford Productions television series Homicide, before finding fame in the Australian television spy drama Hunter. More Trending His portrayal became so popular that his character, Kragg, became the central figure of the series following the departure of co-star Tony Ward. Flying Doctors star Liz Burch has led tributes, sharing: 'Vale Gerard.' Gerard joined the cast of Neighbours in 2002, playing Pat Scully – the father of regular face Joe (Shane Connor). View More » This is a developing story, more to follow.
Daily Mirror
24-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Gerard Kennedy dead: Neighbours and The Flying Doctors dies after glittering career
Iconic Australian actor Gerard Kennedy has died aged 93. A family friend confirmed the veteran star died in an emotional social media post. They said in the statement: "Vale Gerard Kennedy. 1932 - 2025. An iconic Australian actor of many decades. Well-remembered by Prisoner fans for his portrayal as terrorist Al in The Wentworth Siege episodes." Gerard's career spanned five decades. was best known for his roles on Underbelly and Division 4. He also featured on shows such as Country Practice, Blue Heelers and Neighbours. He was also a two-time Gold Logie winner. He won the award for Most Popular Personality on Australian TV in successive years in 1971 and 1972. Other awards the trailblazer of Australia TV acquired included three Penguin Awards. On the big screen, Gerard played roles in the likes of 2013 horror movie Wolf Creek 2 , while also taking on the part of Vince Colosimo in Fat Tony and Co. His first role came playing the antagonist Kragg in 1967's Hunter. Such was his popularity, writers converted his character into the good guy following the departure of main character Tony Ward. His portrayal in Division 4 as Detective Frank Banner saw him before one of the most recognisable faces on TV at the time. His final acting appearance came 10 years ago in 2015. At the time, he featured in two episodes of Glitch on Australian TV channel ABC. His the Flying Doctors co-star Liz Burch shared a sad message following the news of his death, simply writing: "Vale Gerard." Former 2DayFM newsreader Geoff Field also shared a tribute to the actor. Taking to Facebook, he wrote: "RIP Gerard Kennedy who's died aged 93. 'He had many roles but I will always remember him as Detective Frank Banner in Division 4." Fans also took to social media to share messages of condolence. On Twitter /X, one user wrote: "R.I.P. Gerard Kennedy (1932-2025). Thanks for the memories. My deepest sympathy and sincerest condolences to his family and friends." Another added: "Sorry to hear of the passing of Gerard Kennedy, can still hear that dramatic theme of Division 4 and picture Frank Banner looking at his watch. Gee they were great shows back then. #valegerardkennedy" A third said: "Incredible innings at 93, incredible actor. Thanks for the memories Gerard Kennedy. RIP," with a fourth adding: "Loved watching Gerard Kennedy, may he Rest In Peace." Gerard is survived by his daughter Chrisanya.
Daily Mail
24-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Gold Logie winner, Division 4 and Flying Doctors star Gerard Kennedy dead at 93
Legendary Australian actor Gerard Kennedy, who was best known for his work on the seminal Channel Nine police drama Division 4, has died. He was 93. A family friend of the veteran performer confirmed he passed away on Monday. 'Vale Gerard Kennedy. 1932 - 2025. An iconic Australian actor of many decades,' they began on social media. 'Well-remembered by Prisoner fans for his portrayal as terrorist Al in The Wentworth Siege episodes.' Born in Perth in 1932, Kennedy had a remarkable career in Australian media that spanned five decades. He was a two-time Gold Logie winner, consecutively taking home the award in 1971 and 1972. Kennedy also won two Best Actor Logies in 1972 and 1973 for his work on Division 4. He rose to fame in the late '60s in the Channel Nine series spy drama Hunter, in which he played the leading role opposite Wendy Hughes. Kennedy went on to appear in some of Australia's most renowned productions across his celebrated career. His work included stints on Underbelly, A Country Practice, Blue Heelers and Neighbours. He also starred opposite John Jarratt in the 2013 horror movie Wolf Creek 2 and Vince Colosimo in Fat Tony and Co. His final appearance was in 2015 in two episodes of the ABC drama Glitch, after which he enjoyed a well earned retirement. Kennedy worked with some of Australia's most esteemed performers across his incredible career, including John Wood, Lisa McCune and Andrew Daddo. Heartbroken fans took to social media to pay tribute to Kennedy. 'Vale Gerard,' wrote his The Flying Doctors co-star Liz Burch. 'More than an actor, Gerard was a quiet force - respected by peers, loved by audiences and remembered as a true professional,' another person wrote. 'He leaves behind a legacy that defines an era of Australian storytelling and remains a benchmark for integrity and excellence in the performing arts.' 'Gerard was a great actor and a true gentleman. Rest in peace,' a third added. Kennedy was the son of celebrated Australian actress Phyllis Ophel, who appeared with him in an episode of Division 4. Kennedy is survived by his daughter Chrisanya.
