Jobaaj Stories
Gerard Kennedy, the beloved Australian actor known for his rugged charm and powerful screen presence, has passed away at the age of 93. He died peacefully on Monday in a care home in Gosford, on the New South Wales Central Coast.
Gerard Kennedy’s passing was confirmed by entertainment reporter Craig Bennett, who praised his legacy, saying, “It was a stellar career. Gerard was admired from the moment he arrived on the scene.”
Gerard Kennedy’s Journey from Theatre to Television
Gerard Kennedy began his performing career on stage in Perth before becoming a household name on Australian television. His early breakthrough came with villainous roles in the crime series Homicide, where his intensity stood out.
Gerard Kennedy shot to fame in the 1960s TV show Hunter, portraying the spy Kragg. Originally cast as the villain, Gerard Kennedy’s popularity led producers to rework the character into an ally of the lead hero. His performance earned him a Logie Award for Best New Talent.
Gerard Kennedy Becomes a Household Name
Gerard Kennedy became a television icon with his role as Detective Frank Banner in Division 4. The police drama, which aired for six years, brought him two Gold Logie Awards and established him as one of the most loved personalities on Australian television.
“Gerard Kennedy was unstoppable from that moment,” said Bennett. “People across the country admired him for his talent and authenticity.”
Gerard Kennedy’s Long and Varied Career
Gerard Kennedy’s career spanned more than 50 years, featuring roles in celebrated series like Tandarra, Against the Wind, and The Last Outlaw. He was known for choosing ensemble cast projects, appearing in Skyways and The Flying Doctors.
Gerard Kennedy continued to impress in his later years. In 2008, he portrayed underworld figure Graham “The Munster” Kinniburgh in Underbelly. He also starred in Wolf Creek 2 in 2013. His final acting role came in 2015 with the ABC series Glitch.
Over the years, Gerard Kennedy collected not only audience love but critical acclaim too, winning two Silver Logies and three Penguin Awards.
Tributes Pour in for Gerard Kennedy
Gerard Kennedy is being remembered not just for his on-screen brilliance but also for his humility and grace off-screen. Liz Burch, his co-star in The Flying Doctors, called him “a lovely man” in her tribute.
Craig Bennett described Gerard Kennedy as “softly spoken, humble, and elegant,” recalling how modestly he kept his awards hidden away. “He was a beautiful soul,” said Bennett.
Gerard Kennedy’s legacy lives on in the hearts of fans and colleagues who were touched by his performances and personality. At the Logies, he was often greeted with admiration from peers who grew up watching his work.
Gerard Kennedy is survived by his daughter, Chrisanya.
