Tributes are pouring in for veteran actor and beloved Play School presenter Donald Macdonald, who has sadly passed away at the age of 86 after a long battle with cancer.
A Cherished Face on Australian TV
Macdonald was one of the original faces of Play School when it launched in 1966, captivating young audiences with his warm and engaging presence alongside co-stars Don Spencer, Alister Smart, and Lorraine Bayly.
After leaving Play School in 1969, Macdonald went on to star in his own TV series I Married a Bachelor and made memorable guest appearances in several popular Australian shows, including Skippy the Bush Kangaroo, A Country Practice, and Rake.
A Multi-Talented Artist
Macdonald’s talents extended beyond acting. He was an accomplished writer, penning several award-winning stage plays, including Caravan, Hot Taps, and Saints Alive.
In recognition of his contributions to the arts, Macdonald was awarded an A.O. (Officer of the Order of Australia) in 1991 and an A.C. (Companion of the Order of Australia) in 2006.
Remembering a True Gentleman
Entertainment reporter and close friend Craig Bennett confirmed the news of Macdonald’s passing, sharing a heartfelt tribute on Monday.
Bennett described Macdonald as a “stalwart of stage and screen” who faced his cancer battle with “copious good humour” and was surrounded by loved ones in his final days.
Friends, family, and fans have taken to social media to pay tribute to Macdonald’s legacy, remembering him as a “true gentleman” and a “unique” figure in the Australian television industry.