‘The Box’ star passes away at 86 

It’s not every day we say goodbye to a true stalwart of Australian stage and screen, but this week, we do just that. 

Donald Macdonald, a name that may not always have been in the headlines but was indeed woven into the fabric of our entertainment history, has passed away at the age of 86 after a battle with cancer. 

His career, which spanned over four decades, left an indelible mark on both sides of the globe. 

For many, Macdonald’s face is instantly recognisable, even if his name sometimes escapes memory.

He was the kind of actor who could slip seamlessly into any role on the small or big screen or the theatre boards. His versatility and warmth made him a favourite among audiences and colleagues alike.

Macdonald’s journey began at Sydney’s iconic Music Hall, where he took on the role of the Hero—a fitting start for a man who would become a quiet hero of Australian entertainment. 

He quickly made a name for himself at the Philip Theatre, performing in satirical revues such as Is Australia Really Necessary alongside the legendary Miriam Karlin, and the much-loved A Cup of Tea, a Bex and a Good Lie Down. 

These productions were not just crowd-pleasers but cultural touchstones that captured the spirit of their times.

A familiar face on television

For those who grew up in the 1960s, Macdonald’s stint as a Play School presenter from 1966 to 1969 will likely be a cherished memory. 

He brought gentle authority and a twinkle of mischief to the beloved children’s program, helping to shape a generation’s imaginations. 

He also starred in the ABC’s I Married a Bachelor, a series that showcased his comedic timing and everyman appeal. However, Macdonald’s talents weren’t confined to children’s television or sitcoms.

He was a prolific guest star, appearing in a veritable who’s who of classic Australian TV: Skippy the Bush Kangaroo, The Pathfinders, Alvin Purple, Certain Women, Skyways, Chopper Squad, Demolition, Secret Valley, A Town Like Alice, Kingswood Country, Bellamy, Home Sweet Home, Cop Shop, For the Term of His Natural Life, A Country Practice, Come in Spinner, Rafferty’s Rules, Heroes II, GP, Jag, and Rake. 

If you watched Australian television from the 1970s through the 2000s, chances are you’ve seen Donald Macdonald at work.

One of Macdonald’s most memorable roles was as John Barnett in the groundbreaking soap The Box. 

As a closeted gay newsreader, his character’s long-term relationship with Lee Whiteman (played by the late Paul Karo) was a bold and sensitive portrayal at a time when such stories were rarely told on Australian television. 

It’s a testament to Macdonald’s skill and empathy as an actor that the storyline resonated with many viewers.

A creative force behind the scenes

Macdonald wasn’t just a performer—he was a creator. He wrote the stage comedy Caravan, which became a staple of Australian theatre, and penned several other plays, including Hot Taps, Giuseppe, Saints Alive, Seasons, Boulevard Play, and Truth. 

His writing was marked by wit, insight, and a deep understanding of human nature.

While his film credits may have been fewer, they were no less significant. He appeared in international blockbusters like Superman Returns and local favourites like Kenny, proving that his talents also translated to the big screen.

It’s worth noting that Macdonald was a cousin of Paula Duncan, another familiar face in Australian television. The arts ran in the family, and his influence extended beyond his career, inspiring those around him to pursue their creative passions.

Donald Macdonald’s passing reminds us of the quiet giants who help shape our cultural landscape. He may not have always been the leading man, but he was always a vital presence—reliable, engaging, and endlessly talented. 

His work touched countless lives, whether through a comforting smile on Play School, a dramatic turn in a TV drama, or a laugh-out-loud moment in one of his plays.

As we remember Donald Macdonald, we invite you to share your memories. Did you grow up watching him on Play School? Did one of his TV roles stick with you? Or perhaps you saw one of his plays and laughed until you cried? 

Let us know in the comments below—let’s celebrate the life and legacy of a true Australian original.

Also read: General Hospital star passes away at 86