Legendary Australian actor Ken Shorter died in Sydney earlier this month aged 79.
No cause of death was given and it is believed that his health declined over several years after he retired from acting in 2018.
The veteran performer played the title character in the iconic 1974 Australian biker film Stone, which is considered an influence on Mad Max.
He also appeared alongside Mick Jagger in the 1970 film Ned Kelly and played a role in the Hollywood film Dragonheart: A New Beginning.
Australian television writer Nigel Giles confirmed the heartbreaking news on social media: “Okay Ken Shorter, Australian actor who has worked on stage and screen since the 1960s.
‘Known for his roles in iconic film and television productions including You Can’t See ‘Round Corners and Stone, plus guest roles in everything from Play School to Number 96. Lovely guy.’
Born Kenneth Shorter in Sydney in 1946, he originally worked as a police officer and truck driver in the late 1960s.
However, he soon realized that his true passion was acting and he became an actor and starred in some of Australia’s most recognized productions.
Legendary Australian actor Ken Shorter died in Sydney earlier this month aged 79. Pictured in the 1974 film Stone.
The veteran performer played the title character in the iconic 1974 Australian motorcycle gang film Stone, which is considered an influence on later films such as Mad Max.
He began his career as a presenter on the iconic Australian children’s show Play School in 1969, before turning to film.
His other performances include roles in Skippy the Bush Kangaroo and the 1981 American fantasy film Dragonslayer.
He also lived in England for several years and while there appeared on 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.
