Announcement from ScreenWest
Western Australian indigenous actor David Ngoombujarra has died aged 44. David was known for the outstanding talent he brought to the screen in a career spanning more than two decades. A three-time Australian Film Institute award winner, David will be remembered for his remarkable talent and the inspiring legacy he leaves behind.
David lent his charismatic presence to a number of internationally successful feature films including Australia, Ned Kelly and Crocodile Dundee in Los Angeles.
David's break out role came in 1993 when he starred as Pretty Boy Floyd in the WA feature film Blackfellas, earning him his first AFI award. Producer Paul Barron reflects on his work with David:
"David was one of the most talented actors I have ever worked with. His roles ranged from the edgy social realism of Blackfellas and The Circuit to "classic" period dramas like Rabbit Proof Fence and Kings in Grass Castles and then to the cheeky, irreverent character of Otto in the kids series Parallax. There are not many actors who could cover such a range. He was an endearing, generous and engaging person who had a wicked sense of humour, a gorgeous voice and whose smile would light up the screen. He should not be described as one of our best indigenous actors: rather David was one of Australia's great actors. And a delightful man. His tragic death is a loss to our community."
His supporting role in 2007's The Circuit as the character of Harry Pope awarded David his third AFI award. Producer Ross Hutchens said "David was a charismatic actor who commanded your attention every time he came on the screen… He could exude charm, vulnerability, or danger within the blink of an eye… We will always admire his bravery in taking on the challenging role of Harry Pope in The Circuit." David reprised his role for the second series of The Circuit in 2009.
Our thoughts and prayers are with David's family in light of his untimely passing. His outstanding contribution and achievements to the industry will be remembered for generations to come.