Ken Shorter obit

Australian actor Ken Shorter, known for his role in cult film Stone, dies aged 79

 

He was not on the list.

Australian actor Ken Shorter has died aged 79. His death has been confirmed by TV writer Nigel Giles on social media.

He wrote on X (formerly Twitter) of the actor's death: "Vale Ken Shorter, Australian actor who worked across stage + screen since the 1960s."

"Known for roles in iconic film + TV productions including You Can't See 'round Corners (1967/69) and Stone (1974) plus guest roles in everything from Play School to Number 96."

He ended the post by describing him as a "lovely bloke."

Giles' sentiments were shared alongside photos of the actor including in the iconic 1974 Stone movie, which is thought to have influenced the Mad Max series and cemented his cult status.

The 1999 documentary Stone Forever celebrated the film's 25th anniversary and impact on Australian culture. The movie was filmed in Sydney.

Stone was initially slammed by critics but found a huge audience once it hit cinemas and quickly gained a cult-like status.

Shorter also starred alongside Mick Jagger in the 1970s film Ned Kelly and was also part of the cast of Hollywood's Dragonheart: A New Beginning.

He also starred in several Australian and British TV shows including Boney to Riptide and Bellbird.

After a stint on Play School, Shorter appeared in several more TV shows including Number 96, Matlock Police, Homicide, and Division 4. He also starred in The Bill, Casualty and Persuasion.

Shorter also starred in theatre productions including Death of a Salesman

Shorter lived in both Australia and England throughout his career and during his many roles.

While Shorter's cause of death isn't known, it is understood he suffered from several years of declining health after his retirement from acting in 2018.

Shorter was notoriously private about life away from the screen and it isn't known if he married or had children or has any surviving relatives.

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