David Gulpilil
Star from “Crocodile Dundee” dies at the age of 68
David Gulpilil (1953-2021).
© imago images / AAP
He starred in Crocodile Dundee and alongside Nicole Kidman in Australia. Now David Gulpilil, the first Aboriginal film star, has died.
In his film debut “Walkabout” (1971) he led two white children through the Australian outback – and became an instant star in his home country. Then he was seen in important films of the New Australia Wave, especially alongside Richard Chamberlain (87) in “The Last Wave”. With a supporting role in the cult film “Crocodile Dundee” he also became known to a large audience in 1986. In “Australia” he played alongside Nicole Kidman (54) and Hugh Jackman (53).
Now David Gulpilil has died at the age of 68. He was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2019. Gulpilil was the first Aboriginal to become a movie star in Australia.
Steven Marshall, the Prime Minister of the Australian state of South Australia, announced the death of the actor: “It is with deep sadness that I share with the people of South Australia the death of an icon and an artist who wrote the history of Australian film and the portrayal of Aboriginal people Has shaped the canvas “.
David Gulpilil: Ambassador of Aboriginal Culture
David Gulpilil grew up as a member of the Yolngu tribe in Northern Australia. He spent his childhood in the outback, far away from western influences, and learned to hunt and read tracks. He later got English lessons at a mission school and was discovered for his debut “Walkabout”.
Gulpilil cultivated the culture of his tribe in addition to his film career with appearances as a traditional dancer. He repeatedly spoke up politically, demanding the return of land to Aborigines. In 2013, Gulpili, who also wrote children’s books, wrote his first screenplay. “Charlie’s Country”, in which he also played the lead role, was an international hit. In 2019, Gulpil retired from acting when he was diagnosed with lung cancer.