Australian leading man of 1950s-60s cinema, starring in rugged outdoors films, often playing adventurous types. He's synonymous with the Australian identity on screen.
Chips Rafferty, the living symbol of the typical Australian, is renowned for his illustrious career spanning over three decades, with starring roles in major Australian feature films, British and American productions, and iconic commercials that encouraged British emigration to Australia.
Rafferty's cinematic journey began in the late 1930s and continued until his untimely death in 1971, leaving an indelible mark on the Australian film industry.
Born John William Pilbean Goffage on March 26, 1909, in Broken Hill, New South Wales, Rafferty earned the nickname "Chips" during his school days.
Prior to his acting career, Rafferty worked in various jobs, including as an iron moulder, opal miner, sheep shearer, drover, RAAF officer, and pearl diver, which would later influence his rugged on-screen persona.
Rafferty made his film debut in his thirties at Cinesound Studios, starring as a fireman in Ken G. Hall's comedy Dad Rudd, M.P. (1940).
His breakthrough role came when he was cast as one of the three leads in Charles Chauvel's Forty Thousand Horsemen (1940), a film that catapulted him to international fame.
Rafferty's subsequent films, including The Overlanders (1946) and The Sundowners (1960), showcased his versatility as an actor and solidified his position as a leading man in Australian cinema.
Rafferty appeared in numerous British and American productions, including The Desert Rats (1953) and The Wreck of the Mary Deare (1959), further establishing his credentials as a talented actor.
In the late 1950s, Rafferty featured in a series of commercials in Britain, promoting British emigration to Australia and proudly showcasing the country's natural beauty and attractions.
Rafferty was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in 1968 for his services to drama.
His contributions to the Australian film industry have been recognized with a star on the Australian Film Walk of Fame, and he remains an icon of Australian cinema, inspiring generations of actors and filmmakers.
Rafferty married actress Ellen Estrange in 1937, and they had two children together.
Throughout his life, Rafferty was known for his down-to-earth personality, rugged individualism, and deep connection to his Australian heritage.
His remarkable life and career serve as a testament to his enduring legacy, cementing his place as one of Australia's most beloved and respected actors.
Born in 1903
A Pulitzer Prize-winning historian and novelist who explored the American Southwest through his writings, shedding light on its rich cultural heritage.
86 Years Old
A legendary Queen of Rock 'n' Roll, known for her powerful voice, energetic live performances, and iconic hits like "What's Love Got to Do with It" and "Proud Mary".
59 Years Old
Acclaimed actress known for her versatility in film and television, starring in a wide range of genres from drama to comedy, and winning numerous awards for her performances.
62 Years Old
Academy Award-winning actor renowned for intense, nuanced performances in films like Gladiator and A Beautiful Mind. He's a household name in Hollywood, synonymous with dramatic, Oscar-bait roles.
57 Years Old
Australian actor, singer, and producer renowned for his iconic portrayal of Wolverine in the X-Men film series and his Tony Award-winning performances on Broadway.
57 Years Old
Acclaimed for her versatility and range, she has captivated audiences with iconic roles in films like "Elizabeth" and "Blue Jasmine," earning numerous awards and nominations.
70 Years Old
A talented filmmaker and actor, known for directing and starring in epic historical dramas like Braveheart and Apocalypto, as well as controversy surrounding his personal life.
