Aussie actor Arthur Dignam dies while waving to friend

Australian actor Arthur Dignam has passed away at the age of 80 after suffering "a massive heart attack" while waving to his friend.

Arthur had worked on screen and on the stage since 1962 with some of his most memorable roles including The Devil's Playground, We of the Never Never, The Dismissal, Moulin Rouge! and Australia.

Arthur's son Nicholas Gledhill took to Facebook to share the sad news on Saturday, writing, "This morning my father, Arthur Dignam, died. He was taking his morning constitutional and, as he waved to a friend, he was felled by a massive heart attack. He passed away surrounded by friends from his neighbourhood. He was 80 years old.

"We will have a fabulous wake for Arthur befitting his fabulous life when restrictions are lifted," he added.

One Facebook user commented on the post, "Your father was amazing - so inspirational for lots of young actors. Lots of love to you and your family."

Another added, "Terribly sad news. A fine actor whose work gave us decades of enjoyment. Much love and condolences to you and the family."

Someone else wrote, "[RIP] a shining light in the Australian entertainment industry."

Many others commented on Arthur's incredible acting ability as well as his kindness and sense of humour.

One person said, “Your father was amazing - so inspirational for lots of young actors. Lots of love to you and your family.”

His former agent said, "So so very sorry to hear this dear Nick. I shared so many years with Arthur as His Agent as you know. He was always thoroughly entertaining unique and very special. [Incomparable] really."

Someone else added, "Greatly saddened to hear of this, Nick. I only worked with Arthur once, in an ABC TV play. I was rather in awe of him. A fine actor."

Arthur was born on Lord Howe Island in September 1939, later moving to Sydney in 1955 to study at Newington College and then the University of Sydney.

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