Entertainment industry icon passes away—his legendary impact will never be forgotten

The Australian entertainment industry has lost one of its most cherished actors, Ken Shorter, whose performances in film and television have left an indelible mark on the hearts of audiences and colleagues alike.

Known for his dynamic roles and the depth he brought to every character, Shorter's passing represents the end of an era for Australian cinema and television.


Ken Shorter's journey in the acting world began in the 1960s when the Australian film industry started finding its voice.

He quickly became a household name with his lead role in the 1969 film You Can't See 'round Corners, which showcased his ability to capture the complexity of human emotion.


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Australian actor Ken Shorter, known for Stone and You Can't See 'round Corners, has passed away. Credit: Twitter


But his title role in the 1974 bikie film Stone cemented his status as an icon.

Despite initial critical panning, the film became a cult classic, resonating with huge audiences and sparking a revival of the Australian film industry.

The 1999 documentary Stone Forever celebrated the film's 25th anniversary and lasting impact on Australian culture.


Shorter's versatility as an actor was evident in his diverse filmography.

He appeared in the historical drama Ned Kelly, the poignant Sunday Too Far Away.

He showcased his range by playing a henchman guard in Dragonslayer and, nearly two decades later, a king in Dragonheart: A New Beginning.

His talent extended beyond the big screen, and his television credits read like a roll call of classic Australian and British TV shows.

From Skippy and Boney to Riptide and Bellbird, Shorter's presence graced many beloved series.

He ventured into children's programming with Play School and tackled more severe roles in Number 96, Matlock Police, Homicide, and Division 4.


His work in the UK was equally notable. He appeared in dramas such as Persuasion, Casualty, The Bill, and Holby City, proving that his talent knew no geographical boundaries.

Shorter's ability to adapt to various genres and styles made him a valuable and respected figure in the acting community at home and abroad.

As we bid Ken Shorter farewell, we remember his roles and the warmth and authenticity he brought to each performance.

His contributions to the industry have paved the way for future generations of actors, and his legacy will continue to inspire.

Nigel Giles, an author and historian, captured the sentiment of many when he tweeted a tribute to Shorter, describing him as a 'lovely bloke' and highlighting his significant roles in iconic film and TV productions.
Key Takeaways

  • Australian actor Ken Shorter, known for films such as Stone and You Can't See 'round Corners, has passed away.
  • Despite initial critical dismissal, his film Stone became highly popular with audiences and contributed to the revival of the Australian film industry.
  • Ken Shorter's career included a variety of roles across both film and television, showcasing his versatility as an actor.
  • His notable TV appearances spanned from popular Australian shows like Play School and Homicide to UK dramas, including Persuasion and The Bill.
We invite our readers to share their memories of Shorter's performances and his impact on Australian entertainment.

His legendary impact on the industry will indeed never be forgotten.

May he rest in peace.
 
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Wow, R.I.P. Stone.
That bit towards the end in Stone in Gore Hill Cemetery holding the gun to stop the Gravediggers getting the assassin was him at his best.
I used to ride motorcycles in Sydney and one has to do the 'Stone' run around Neutral Bay and the dip on River Road back of Lane Cove was great.
I also been in Gore Hill Cemetery a lot and can almost find the exact spot of the burial
 
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Ken was a great bloke, worked with him on Stone (I was a rival bikie).
Very easy going and a great character actor.
RIP pal.
My older brother came home telling me to get to Gore Hill Cemetery when it was filmed there but by the time I got there, nobody there, apparently the real Cops showed up, someone rang in a group of Bikies with guns seen there so said my brother who seen it.
 
Ken was a great bloke, worked with him on Stone (I was a rival bikie).
Very easy going and a great character actor.
RIP pal.
Also, just remembered this. Way back in the early '90s I was invited to a birthday party of one of the members of the Vietnam Vets MC and they bought the Gravediggers skull with slouch hat patch off Sandy Harbutt.
There was lots of them at the party wearing full colours for their comrades birthday. It was a honour to be there with other digger bikies. It took me a while to understand what Gravedigger meant. Peed off ex service men. The Undertaker in Stone was sent to prison for not shooting a gun and the RSL not allowing Vietnam Vets to march at ANZAC day.
This should never be forgotten how the Vets were treated. .
 
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Condolences to his family and friends, RIP KL

Sad loss To a great actor.Loved the Stone movie RIP.Ken Shorter

Also, just remembered this. Way back in the early '90s I was invited to a birthday party of one of the members of the Vietnam Vets MC and they bought the Gravediggers skull with slouch hat patch off Sandy Harbutt.
There was lots of them at the party wearing full colours for their comrades birthday. It was a honour to be there with other digger bikies. It took me a while to understand what Gravedigger meant. Peed off ex service men. The Undertaker in Stone was sent to prison for not shooting a gun and the RSL not allowing Vietnam Vets to march at ANZAC day.
This should never be forgotten how the Vets were treated. .
Condolences to his family and friends
RIP
 
Also, just remembered this. Way back in the early '90s I was invited to a birthday party of one of the members of the Vietnam Vets MC and they bought the Gravediggers skull with slouch hat patch off Sandy Harbutt.
There was lots of them at the party wearing full colours for their comrades birthday. It was a honour to be there with other digger bikies. It took me a while to understand what Gravedigger meant. Peed off ex service men. The Undertaker in Stone was sent to prison for not shooting a gun and the RSL not allowing Vietnam Vets to march at ANZAC day.
This should never be forgotten how the Vets were treated. .
the RSL likes to forget why they are even in existence.........the remind them the 's' is for soldier
 
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