New Zealand actors who deceased in 2001
Here are 2 famous actors from New Zealand died in 2001:
John O'Shea
John O'Shea (June 20, 1920 New Plymouth-July 8, 2001 Wellington) a.k.a. John Dempsey O'Shea was a New Zealand film director, film producer, screenwriter and actor.
O'Shea was a key figure in the New Zealand film industry during the 1950s and 1960s, helping to establish the country's first film co-operative and producing and directing a number of acclaimed films. He was a pioneering figure in the use of the Maori language in film, directing the first feature film in Maori, "Broken Barrier" in 1952. He also produced and directed the influential documentary "Runaway" in 1964, which depicted the lives of young Maori who had left their homes to find work in the cities. In addition to his work in film, O'Shea was involved in theater and television, and was a well-respected teacher and mentor to many aspiring filmmakers. O'Shea was awarded the Order of New Zealand, the country's highest civil honor, in 1990 for his contributions to New Zealand's cultural life.
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Bryan Drake
Bryan Drake (October 7, 1925 Dunedin-December 25, 2001 Suffolk) also known as Bryan Ernest Hare Drake was a New Zealand musician, singer, teacher and actor.
He began his music career as a baritone in the New Zealand Opera Company, and later became the principal baritone of the Royal Opera House in London. Drake also performed in numerous television shows and films, including "The Avengers", "The Saint", and "Doctor Who". In addition to his performing career, he also taught at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London. Drake was highly regarded for his ability to portray complex characters on stage and screen, and his powerful baritone voice made him a standout performer. He received numerous awards for his contributions to the arts, including the New Zealand Order of Merit and the Laurence Olivier Award.
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