Jack Thomson, the legendary Australian actor who starred in more than 50 films and TV shows, passed away on December 27, 2023, at the age of 79. He was surrounded by his family and friends at his home in Sydney, after a long battle with kidney failure.
Thomson was one of the most acclaimed and versatile actors of his generation, who won two Australian Film Institute Awards, a Cannes Film Festival Award, and an Order of Australia for his contributions to the arts. He was known for his roles in classics such as Breaker Morant, The Man from Snowy River, The Chant of Jimmie Blacksmith, and Australia.
He was also a passionate advocate for the rights of Indigenous Australians, environmental causes, and the film industry. He was a founding member of the Australian Conservation Foundation, a patron of the Australian Film Institute, and a mentor to many young actors.
Jack’s death has shocked and saddened his fans, colleagues, and admirers around the world, who have paid tribute to his remarkable life and career. Here are some of the messages that have been shared on social media and in the media:
- Nicole Kidman, who co-starred with Jack in Australia, wrote on Instagram: “Jack Thomson was a national treasure, a brilliant actor, and a wonderful human being. I feel so lucky to have worked with him and learned from him. He was always generous, kind, and supportive. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him.”
- Russell Crowe, who considered Thomson as a friend and an inspiration, tweeted: “Thomson was a legend, a titan, a gentleman. He was one of the reasons I wanted to be an actor. He was a master of his craft, a storyteller, a teacher, a leader. He was a force of nature, a light in the dark, a voice of truth. He was my mate and I loved him.”
- Cate Blanchett, who presented Thomson with the AACTA Longford Lyell Award in 2015, said in a statement: “Jack Thomson was a trailblazer, a pioneer, a visionary. He was one of the founding fathers of the Australian film industry, who helped shape its identity and its future. He was a fearless and charismatic performer, who brought depth, nuance, and humanity to every character he played. He was a generous and gracious colleague, who shared his wisdom and his spirit with everyone he worked with. He was a hero, a legend, a friend. He was Jack.”
- Baz Luhrmann, who directed Thomson in Australia, wrote on Facebook: “Jack Thomson was a genius, a giant, a gentleman. He was one of the greatest actors of all time, who could do anything and everything on screen. He was a collaborator, a creator, a mentor. He was a man of integrity, dignity, and grace. He was a joy, a delight, a treasure. He was Thomson.”
Thomson is survived by his wife, Leona King, his son, Patrick, his daughter, Isabelle, his stepdaughter, Anna, and his grandchildren. His family has requested privacy and respect during this difficult time, and has announced that a public memorial service will be held in Sydney in the new year.
Thomson’s legacy will live on in his films, his causes, and his memories. He was a remarkable man who touched the lives of millions with his talent, his passion, and his heart. He was Jack Thomson, and he will never be forgotten.
