Person Biography:
Bruno Lawrence, a New Zealander, was a multitalented individual who made a name for himself as a character star and cult icon in both New Zealand and Australia. Born David Charles Lawrence on February 12, 1941, in Sussex, England, he moved to New Zealand with his family at a young age.
Lawrence developed an interest in drums at an early age and formed a dixie-land band at 15. He gained the nickname Bruno and went on to become a session artist, playing drums for various jazz and pop groups. He also released his own singles and eventually transitioned to the TV music scene.
Lawrence's acting career began in the 1970s, impressing audiences with his portrayal of complex and often dark characters in independent films. He co-wrote and produced several films, including Wild Man and Smash Palace.
Lawrence's notable film roles include Utu, The Quiet Earth, and Heart of the Stag. He also appeared in several Australian films, including An Indecent Obsession, As Time Goes by, Grievous Bodily Harm, The Delinquents, The Efficiency Expert, and Gino.
In addition to his film work, Lawrence produced, co-wrote, and starred in the comedy series Blerta and played the role of Brian Thompson in the satire program Breaking News.
Lawrence passed away on June 10, 1995, at the age of 54, due to inoperable lung cancer. He left behind a wife and five children. A biography about his life, entitled Bruno: The Bruno Lawrence Story, was published posthumously in 1999.
