Heartbreaking news: Cricket icon John McMahon (91) and Star Trek actor Gary Graham (73) pass away

The cricket community and the world of science fiction and television are in a state of mourning following the passing of two legends: John McMahon, a revered figure in the cricketing world, and Gary Graham, a veteran actor best known for his roles in Star Trek: Enterprise and Alien Nation.

McMahon, who passed away at the age of 91, was known for his humility, integrity, and unwavering dedication to the game of cricket.



Born in Sydney in 1932, McMahon's cricketing journey began at the tender age of nine in 1943.

His passion for the sport was such that he continued to play until he was 79, marking an astounding seven-decade-long career.


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May John McMahon and Gary Graham rest in peace. Image source: X/@CricketNSW, X/@TrekCore.


His contributions to cricket were not limited to the field; he was also a respected coach and administrator, shaping the careers of many budding cricketers.

McMahon's prowess as a cricketer was undeniable.



He was a formidable left-arm wrist spinner and was known for his deadly spin.

He played eight seasons for Balmain in the Sydney Grade competition, including a full season of First Grade cricket, taking an impressive 210 wickets for the club.

After moving to Lismore in the 1950s to work as a journalist, McMahon continued to make his mark on the cricket scene.

According to Cricket New South Wales (Cricket NSW), McMahon made 'an immediate impact on the country cricket scene in NSW'.

He also played 32 seasons of First Grade cricket in Lismore, with 18 seasons with Marist Brothers and 14 with Western Districts.

His skill was such that he took five wickets or more in 75 innings for Marist Brothers, and his total number of five-wicket hauls for his various teams exceeded 120.

He was also heavily involved as a coach and administrator during that time.



McMahon's contributions to cricket were recognised at the highest level.

He was honoured in the Queen's Birthday Honours List in 2008 and received the Order of Australia medal (OAM) for his services to cricket.

He was a life member of several cricket associations, including the Cricket NSW Association, Lismore District Cricket Association, Far North Coast Cricket Council, North Coastal Cricket Zone, and Country Cricket NSW.

Cricket NSW CEO Lee Germon paid tribute to McMahon, saying, 'John was the humblest of men, understated, strong and of the highest integrity.'

'He cared deeply for cricket and our people, as evidenced by his lifelong commitment to the game as a player and volunteer, and will be sadly missed for generations to come.'

'I know I speak for many, many people within the cricket community in offering our deepest condolences to Joan, the McMahon family and all of those whose [lives] John has impacted.'



The McMahon family was deeply affected by the Lismore flood disaster in 2022, which led them to move to Brisbane, where McMahon sadly passed away.

He is survived by his wife, Joan, their eight children, and many grandchildren.

Three of their children—Terry, Brian, and Michael—followed in their father's footsteps, playing first-grade cricket in Sydney.

John McMahon’s love for cricket was evident in every aspect of his life, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of cricketers, reminding them of the joy and camaraderie that the sport can bring.



On the other hand, the passing of veteran actor Gary Graham at the age of 73 left a heavy blow to the world of science fiction and television.

Graham's death was confirmed by his family on Monday.

The cause of death remains undisclosed, with the family only stating that it was 'sudden'.

Graham's ex-wife, Susan Lavelle, broke the news in a heartfelt social media post, paying tribute to the man who was not only her former partner but also the father of their only child, Haylee Graham.

'It is with deep profound sadness to say that Gary Graham, my ex-husband, amazing actor and father of our beautiful only child together, Haylee Graham, has passed away today,' she wrote.

'We are completely devastated, especially our daughter Haley. His wife, Becky, was by his side.'

'Gary was funny, sarcastic sense of humour but kind, fought for what he believed in, a devout Christian and was so proud of his daughter, Haylee.'

'This was sudden, so please pray for our daughter as she navigates through this thing called grief.'

'Fly high into the heavens Gar! Thank you for our journey, and thank you for the gifts you left me in acting, my love of horses and most importantly, our daughter.'



Born on June 6, 1950, in Long Beach, California, Graham's acting career spanned over four decades.

He first gained recognition in the 1980s with his role in the TV series Alien Nation, where he played Detective Matthew Sikes.

However, it was his role as Vulcan Ambassador Soval in Star Trek: Enterprise between 2001 and 2005 that cemented his status as a sci-fi icon.

His portrayal of the stern yet wise Vulcan diplomat was lauded by fans and critics alike, adding depth and complexity to the Star Trek universe.

Beyond Star Trek, Graham's filmography is extensive, with roles in films like All the Right Moves alongside Tom Cruise.



His daughter Haylee, who acted alongside her father in the short film Planted, also paid tribute to him on her social media, saying, 'My dad was such a star.'

'All over New York Times, TMZ, Fox News, NBC, Google, Yahoo News! I am blown away at how Gary Graham is being so honoured.'

The world of science fiction is a little less bright without Gary Graham. His legacy will continue to inspire and entertain future generations of sci-fi fans. As we mourn his loss, we also celebrate his life and the joy he brought to so many through his work.

Key Takeaways

  • John McMahon, a legendary Cricket NSW coach, has passed away at the age of 91.
  • McMahon was honoured with the Order of Australia medal for his services to cricket and was recognised in the Queen's Birthday Honours List in 2008.
  • He had a prolific career as a player, coach, and administrator, with involvement in cricket spanning from 1943 to 2011.
  • Veteran US actor Gary Graham, known for his work on Star Trek: Enterprise, also passed away at the age of 73.
  • The cause of death was not publicly disclosed, with the family only stating it was 'sudden.'
  • Gary Graham had a successful acting career with notable roles in Alien Nation and as Vulcan Ambassador Soval in Star Trek: Enterprise.

We extend our deepest condolences to the McMahon and Graham family during this difficult time.

May John McMahon and Gary Graham rest in peace.
 
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My husband went to the funeral of an old Australian cricket captain Brian Booth last year and met one of John McMahon's sons.
A very good family.
RIP Jihn McMahon and prayers with his family 🙏

Hubby is a big star trek fan and knew of Gary Graham
 

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