Introduction: Who was John Meillon?
John Meillon was an Australian actor who rose to fame for his role in the Crocodile Dundee movie franchise. Born on May 1, 1934, in Mosman, Sydney, Meillon began his acting career in the 1950s and went on to star in numerous films and TV shows throughout his career. He was known for his versatile acting skills, and his performances in movies like They’re a Weird Mob, The Sundowners, and Crocodile Dundee 2 earned him critical acclaim.
Early Life and Career
Childhood and Education
John Meillon was born to George Meillon, a pharmacist, and his wife, Lorna Meillon. He grew up in Mosman, Sydney, and attended Shore School in North Sydney. As a child, Meillon was interested in acting, and he participated in school plays and drama productions. After completing his education, Meillon began working as a clerk in a law firm, but he soon quit his job to pursue his passion for acting.
Early Acting Career
Meillon made his acting debut in the 1955 movie, A Cry from the Streets. He then went on to star in numerous Australian TV shows and movies, including Homicide, Matlock Police, and They’re a Weird Mob. Meillon’s breakthrough role came in the 1960 movie, The Sundowners, in which he played the role of Bluey Brown. The movie was a critical and commercial success, and Meillon’s performance was praised by critics.
Career Highlights
They’re a Weird Mob
They’re a Weird Mob is a 1966 Australian comedy movie directed by Michael Powell. The movie is based on a novel by John O’Grady and stars Meillon in the lead role of Nino Culotta. The movie was a huge success and is considered a classic of Australian cinema. Meillon’s performance in the movie earned him critical acclaim, and he was nominated for the Best Actor award at the Australian Film Institute Awards.
Crocodile Dundee 2
Meillon played the role of Walter Reilly in the 1988 movie, Crocodile Dundee 2. The movie was a sequel to the 1986 hit movie, Crocodile Dundee, and was directed by John Cornell. Meillon’s performance in the movie was praised by critics, and the movie was a commercial success, grossing over $240 million worldwide.
Legacy and Death
John Meillon Jr.
John Meillon had a son, John Meillon Jr., who is also an actor. John Meillon Jr. has appeared in numerous Australian TV shows and movies, including The Flying Doctors and The Young Doctors.
John Meillon’s Net Worth
John Meillon’s net worth at the time of his death was estimated to be around $1 million. He had earned a significant amount of money from his acting career, and his performances in movies like Crocodile Dundee 2 had helped him establish himself as a successful actor.
Cause of Death
John Meillon passed away on August 11, 1989, at the age of 55. The cause of his death was cirrhosis of the liver, which was a result of his heavy drinking. Meillon’s death was a great loss to the Australian film industry, and he is remembered to this day for his contributions to Australian cinema.
Conclusion
John Meillon was a talented actor who left a lasting legacy in the Australian film industry. His performances in movies like They’re a Weird Mob and Crocodile Dundee 2 earned him critical acclaim, and he is remembered to this day as one of the most versatile actors of his time. Meillon’s life and career serve as an inspiration to aspiring actors, and his contributions to Australian cinema will always be remembered.
FAQ
Who was John Meillon?
John Meillon was an Australian actor who appeared in numerous films, television shows, and stage productions throughout his career. He is perhaps best known for his role as Walter Reilly in the television series “My Name’s McGooley, What’s Yours?” and his portrayal of Walter Reilly in the film “Crocodile Dundee” and its sequel “Crocodile Dundee II.”
What was John Meillon’s legacy?
John Meillon was a highly respected actor in Australia and beyond. He was known for his versatility and ability to bring depth and nuance to his performances. He was also a mentor and inspiration to many young actors and helped to shape the Australian film and television industry.
What was John Meillon’s most famous role?
John Meillon is perhaps best known for his role as Walter Reilly in the film “Crocodile Dundee” and its sequel “Crocodile Dundee II.” In these films, he played the bumbling but lovable manager of a newspaper in the Australian outback.
What other films and television shows did John Meillon appear in?
John Meillon appeared in numerous films and television shows throughout his career. Some of his notable roles include Jimmie Blacksmith in “The Chant of Jimmie Blacksmith,” Sergeant Gallagher in “Wake in Fright,” and Sir Edward Ramsay in “The Fourth Wish.” He also appeared in the television series “Homicide,” “Matlock Police,” and “Prisoner.”
When did John Meillon pass away?
John Meillon passed away on August 10, 1989, at the age of 57. He had been suffering from cirrhosis of the liver, which was attributed to his long-standing alcoholism. His death was a great loss to the Australian film and television industry.
