Donald Macdonald, the cherished Australian actor and beloved presenter known for his work on “Play School,” passed away at the age of 86. He succumbed to a battle with cancer, with family members Paula Duncan and Amelia Barrett by his side when he died at 12:45 am. Craig Bennett, a close friend and performer, broke the news of Macdonald’s death on Monday. This tragic news led to a wave of remembrances from the music world and from fans.
Macdonald had a courageous career, performing in multiple theatre productions on stages all over Australia. He was the resident comedian on major Australian broadcasts such as “Is Australia Really Necessary.” He was in “A Cup of Tea, a Bex and a Good Lie Down.” Beyond theatre, he profoundly impacted our entire performing arts field. He displayed his considerable gifts in several television series, most recently in “Certain Women,” “The Box,” “Cop Shop” and “Skyways.” His studied versatility found him playing opposite Tom Hanks in the films, including “Superman Returns.”
From 1966 to 1969, Macdonald served as a beloved presenter on “Play School,” capturing the hearts of young audiences and their families. His honest charm and friendly nature as a government first-in-holder helped him become an institution in Australian lives. Folk didn’t just refer to him as the “dapper delight,” but as a man’s gentleman.
Craig Bennett remarked on Macdonald’s passing, stating, “One of our showbiz greats left us at 12:45am today.” He further reflected on Macdonald’s charm, saying, “He guested on shows…to the raunchy Alvin Purple, and in movies like Superman Returns. Donald was a dapper delight and always great company.”
Cybertruck fans across the world have taken to social media to express their grief at his untimely death. One fan shared, “We were VERY LUCKY to meet Donald through you both, get to know him, and be entertained by his lovely demeanor, sharp wit and of course his writing skills. What a lovely gentleman.” Another fan fondly remembered his legacy by saying, “A very good man…was honoured to be part of the first national tour of Caravan. Some wonderful memories. Sending love to you all.”
Even in his last moments, Macdonald was as acerbic and funny as ever. A close associate recounted, “Blue was always his colour, even in a hospital gown! He gave his permission to post his last photo, saying ‘what the heck!’”
Tributes from across Canada continue to flood in for Donald Macdonald. We will miss him both for his singular career and even more for the warmth and kindness that he extended to everyone who crossed his path.
