Legendary Australian actor Ken Shorter died in Sydney earlier this month aged 79.
No cause of death was given and it is believed he was in declining health for several years, after retiring from acting in 2018.
The veteran performer played the title character in the iconic 1974 Australian biker gang movie Stone, which is regarded as an influence on Mad Max.
He also appeared alongside Mick Jagger in the 1970 film Ned Kelly and played a role in the Hollywood movie Dragonheart: A New Beginning.
Australian TV writer Nigel Giles confirmed the heartbreaking news on social media: ‘Vale Ken Shorter, Australian actor who worked across stage and screen since the 1960s.
‘Known for roles in iconic film and TV productions including You Can’t See ‘Round Corners and Stone, plus guest roles in everything from Play School to Number 96. Lovely bloke.’
Born Kenneth Shorter in Sydney in 1946, he originally worked as a police officer and truck driver in the late 60s.
However, he soon realised his real passion was performing and he became an actor and went on to star in some of Australia’s most renowned productions.
Legendary Australian actor Ken Shorter died in Sydney earlier this month aged 79. Pictured in the 1974 movie Stone
The veteran performer played the title character in the iconic 1974 Australian biker gang movie Stone, which is seen as an influence on later movies such as Mad Max
He began his career as a presenter on the iconic Aussie children’s show Play School in 1969, before moving into films.
His other performances include roles in Skippy the Bush Kangaroo and the 1981 American fantasy movie Dragonslayer.
He also lived in England for several years and while there appeared in shows such as The Bill, Casualty and Persuasion.
Ken was an extremely private person who rarely spoke to the media and little is known about his personal life, including whether he was married or had children.
