(The Guardian) Celebrated Indigenous actor and musician Uncle Jack Charles dies
The Indigenous actor, musician, artist and activist Uncle Jack Charles has died at the age of 79.
His publicist confirmed on Tuesday morning that Charles suffered a stroke and died at Royal Melbourne Hospital surrounded by family.
Charles forged a name for himself over five decades in films such as The Chant of Jimmie Blacksmith, Bedevil, Blackfellas, Tom White and Pan. He was recently cast in the television series Wolf Creek.
A Boon Wurrung, Dja Dja Wurrung, Woiwurrung and Yorta Yorta man and a survivor of the stolen generations, Charles was the first witness to tell his story in Victoria’s Indigenous truth-telling commission in April this year.
“Before he passed away, his family were able to send him off on Country during a smoking ceremony at the Royal Melbourne hospital,” his family said in a statement. “We are so proud of everything he has achieved in his remarkable life – Elder, actor, musician, potter, activist, mentor, a household name and voice loved by all.”
