Statement on the passing of Yolŋu man, David Dalaithngu AM

Statement from Tanya Denning-Orman, Director of Indigenous Content, SBS:  

All of the team at National Indigenous Television (NITV), and from across the SBS network, are deeply saddened by the passing of iconic industry pioneer, Yolŋu man David Dalaithngu AM.  

He was a man who loved his land and his culture, and he took it to the world over his almost 50-year career.  

An actor, dancer, singer and painter, he was internationally recognised and celebrated for the roles he has played in some of the most defining films of Australian cinema. For young First Nations mob growing up, the impact of seeing him on screen was profound. He was also a pioneer in the way he used language and embedded culture through his work. Our industry would not be where it is today without the path he has forged, and the mark he has left on all who have watched him perform with the grace, heart, and occasional cheekiness he is known for.  

He will always be remembered as an incredible storyteller, a hugely talented and humble man, and someone who has left an everlasting legacy – on our screens and across communities around the country.  

He leaves behind a beautiful family to whom we send our love and support; we acknowledge and respect their privacy during this time of mourning.    

Thank you, David. Enjoy those mud crabs from the mangroves of Manangrida.

ENDS.

NITV will celebrate the life and legacy of David Dalaithngu AM with special programming and content available from Tuesday 30 November 2021. Visit sbs.com.au/nitv.  

For a PDF version of this statement, click here.