David Gulpilil (the revered Indigenous Australian actor/dancer) is well-known for his performances in films like Rabbit-Proof Fence, Crocodile Dundee,The TrackerAnd WalkaboutAfter a long battle with cancer, he passed away at 68.
Gulpilil’s death was confirmed Monday in a statement by South Australian Premier Steven Marshall. “It is with deep sadness that I share with the people of South Australia the passing of an iconic, once-in-a-generation artist who shaped the history of Australian film and Aboriginal representation on screen – David Gulpilil Ridjimiraril Dalaithngu (AM),”He shared his posts on social media.
Gulpilil was recognized for his performance in blockbuster comedy. Crocodile Dundee(1986) and Phillip Noyce’s dramaRabbit-Proof Fence (2002), which garnered the actor his first best actor prize from the Australian Academy of Cinema and Television Arts Awards.
He is also known for his 2002 feature.The TrackerHe also appeared in the film, which featured his title character. He had further collaborations on the 2006 film with Rolf de Heer.Ten Canoes(2006), filmed in the Aboriginal language, andCharlie’s Country(2013).
Gulpilil was awarded the Un Certain Regard best actor prize at Cannes and a second AACTA Award.Charlie’s CountryAfter spending time in prison for aggravated attack, he made a brief comeback with.
In addition to his pioneering acting, he also had memorable supporting parts inThe Proposition(2005), Baz Luhrmann’s romantic epicAustralia(2008), and Australian hitSatellite Boy(2012).
Born David Gulpilil Ridjimiraril Dalaithngu in 1953 as a member of the Yolnu people, Gulpilil was raised in a traditional lifestyle in northern Australia. He was known as a skilled tribal dancer and in 1969 British filmmaker Nicolas Roeg cast the sixteen-year-old unknown to play a key role in his 1971 movie Walkabout, catapulting Gulpilil to fame.
He would continue to star in well-received movies like Storm Boy(1976) The Last Wave (1977).
Gulpilil has recently re-teamed. Another Country director Molly Reynolds on a documentary about the actor’s life,My Name Is Gulpilil. This film, which was nominated by AACTA, premiered at the 2021 Adelaide Festival.