Leverne McDonnell facts for kids

Leverne Ann McDonnell (born 27 June 1963 – died 15 March 2013) was a talented Australian actress. She was known for her roles in many popular TV shows and films.

Early Life and Training

Leverne McDonnell grew up with a passion for performing. She spent three years with a group called "Energy Connection." This was a youth dance theatre company in Adelaide, South Australia.

Later, she was accepted into a very famous acting school. This school was the National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA) in Sydney. Many well-known Australian actors have studied there. Leverne finished her studies at NIDA in 1985.

Acting Career

Leverne McDonnell had a busy career in television and movies. She often played strong and interesting characters.

TV Roles

In 1992, Leverne played Kelly in the ABC police drama series Phoenix. Her performance was so good that she was nominated for an AFI Award. This award is for the best actress in a TV drama.

She also played a different character, Detective Sergeant Jan Murray, in Janus. This show was a spin-off from Phoenix. Leverne appeared in several other TV series too. These included Halfway Across the Galaxy and Turn Left, The Secret Life of Us, Horace & Tina, and The Saddle Club. She also acted in mini-series like The Dirtwater Dynasty and Come In Spinner.

Film Appearances

Leverne also worked on the big screen. She had roles in movies such as Oscar and Lucinda (1997). She also appeared in The Interview (1998).

In 2008, Leverne McDonnell took on a main role in the film Four of a Kind. She played Detective Inspector Gina Sturrock. She also helped make the movie as an Associate Producer.

Later Life

Leverne McDonnell passed away on 15 March 2013, at the age of 49. A documentary film about her life was made in 2014. It was called All In Her Stride. Leverne herself helped produce this film.