Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander readers are advised this article contains images of a person who has passed away.
Yolŋu performer and artist David Gulpilil Ridjimiraril Dalaithngu has passed away from lung cancer, aged 68.
The icon who starred in films Crocodile Dundee, Storm Boy, Rabbit-Proof Fence, and Australia has left an incredible mark on the world.
To celebrate his life, fellow celebrity peers have shared emotional tributes in honour of his incredible life.
Hugh Jackman, who had the privilege of working with David, posted an Australia movie cast photo from their press junket, and he penned a solemn message, “I join all Australians, and the world over, in mourning the loss of David Gulpilil Ridjimiraril Dalaithngu.
“One of the great privileges of my life was to work with David on the movie Australia. His contribution to film is immeasurable.
“From his cheeky laugh, to that mischievous glint in his eye and effortless ease in front of the camera … His humanity is irreplaceable,” Hugh poetically concluded.
Beloved Olympian Cathy Freeman shared a tribute for David on her Instagram to say goodbye.
“Thank you for the inspiration, David Gulpilil. Rest In Peace,” she wrote.
Home and Away’s Georgie Parker also posted a slew of pictures from his work to bid her farewells.
She wrote a powerful message about his impact on the world and the acting community.
“Such a powerful actor and a beautiful artist. He was too young to leave us, and we’re all going to miss his presence more than we know. Rest in peace David Gulpilil , thankyou for everything you shared with us. ❤️,” she shared.
Born in 1953, David was raised on Arnhem Land, where he practised the traditions of the Mandhalpingu clan of the Yolŋu people. At 16-years-old he found his big break when director Nicholas Roeg cast him in Walkabout.
“To everyone, thank you for watching me. … Never forget me while I am here.”
(Credit: Getty)The documentary My Name is Gulpilil was made about his life after he was diagnosed with stage four lung cancer in 2017 and was given months to live, but as fate should have it, he was able to attend its premiere years later.
However, he didn’t announce his diagnosis until 2019, when he received the National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee lifetime achievement award.
“To everyone, thank you for watching me. … Never forget me while I am here,” he said in his speech. “I will never forget you. I will still remember you, even though it won’t go on forever. I will still remember.”
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