Australians in Hollywood : Biographical Notes

The Australian men and women who feature in this exhibition range from early producers, actors and stunt people to the talented crop that are currently making their mark in American film. When considering his acting ancestry, actor Geoffrey Rush said at the opening of the exhibition, “ I like climbing the branches of the family tree. It inspires me and defines me, mysteriously, as an actor to possibly be a twig on the sturdy limbs of say a Frank Thring, a Robert Helpmann or a latter day Coral Browne”. The story of Australian achievement in Hollywood is too large to be told in one exhibition. The best we can do is celebrate some of the branches and leaves on that family tree.

We hope you enjoy exploring the brief biographies of the 85 brilliant careers that feature in the exhibition.

Text and research prepared by Dr David Free. Comments can be forwarded to Simon Elliott, Assistant Director; e-mail simon.elliott@dcita.gov.au