FAREWELL TO AN AUSSIE SHOWBIZ ICON

The actress won a legion of fans in shows from Skippy to Neighbours Moya O’sullivan

Legendary actress Moya “Moysie” O’sullivan was farewelled on Saturday at the grand age of 91, leaving a huge hole in the showbiz industry after an incredible career that began at the same time as television in Australia.

“She was one of those faces everyone knew and she was recognised all over the world,” says Studio 10 reporter Craig Bennett, a friend for 35 years.

“Moya, or Moysie as we called her, used to delight in telling stories of her trips through rural Italy or France or in the hustle and bustle of Hong Kong, only to have eagle-eyed viewers come up and say, ‘ You’re that lady on TV.’ ”

The incredibly respected and much-loved actress began appearing on Australian TV from the moment it first flickered onto our screens in the late 1950s. She was one of the few actors to appear in almost every locally made series aired, including Hunter, Homicide, Cop Shop, Matlock Police, the original Skippy (and its more recent remake), Number 96, Kingswood Country, A Country Practice and Division 4. She played Grandma Kelly in Hey Dad..! and Beryl’s mum in Sons And Daughters.

She won more fans for her stints in Blue Heelers, Water Rats, All Saints and Home And Away (playing three different characters over 20 years), and as Neighbours’ Marlene Kratz for three seasons. Her most recent TV role was in 2012’s Tricky Business.

On the big screen, Moya appeared with Heath Ledger in Two Hands and Playing Beatie Bow with Peter Phelps.

“Moya loved life and loved her work,” Craig says. “She adored acting and loved her fans and had the most wonderful zest for life.

“She loved nothing better than a gossip and a cheeky white wine, but I never ever heard her say an unkind word about anyone. Everyone absolutely loved Moysie.”