Bryan Brown: From Reluctant Reader to Acclaimed Author
Bryan Brown, the celebrated Australian actor, once had little interest in literature during his youth in Sydney. However, a lengthy plane journey sparked a newfound passion for storytelling that changed his perspective.
A Recognizable and Charismatic Figure
Known for his rugged handsomeness and sharp wit, Brown is 78 years old but remains instantly recognizable. His career spans classic TV events like The Thorn Birds, films such as Breaker Morant, and roles alongside Hollywood stars including Tom Cruise in Cocktail and Sigourney Weaver in Gorillas In The Mist.
Transition to Writing
Beyond acting, Brown has established himself as a bestselling author, focusing on crime fiction. His debut book, Sweet Jimmy, a short story collection, was released in 2021. This was followed by his first novel, The Drowning, in 2023. His third book, The Hidden, came out this month.
Early Aversion to Reading
Brown openly admits to having hated English in school, saying,
“I hated English at school. Because we got things like Great Expectations to read…”
He now acknowledges the classic Dickens novel’s merit but reflects on how it felt to a young teenager:
“Not when you’re bloody 12 and 14 and 16, and you want to play sport...”
Modern Life and Interests
We met for lunch in Fitzroy. Although Brown resides in Sydney with his wife, actor and director Rachel Ward, he was visiting Melbourne for a podcast appearance. He confessed,
“I’ve never listened to a podcast, ever.”
Author's summary: Bryan Brown transformed from a boy who disliked reading into a celebrated actor and bestselling author, proving a powerful journey through storytelling and perseverance.