Tom Long (actor) facts for kids

Thomas Andrew Long (born August 3, 1968 – died January 4, 2020) was an Australian actor. He was known for his roles in TV shows and movies. Many people remember him as Angus in the TV series SeaChange and as Brenden Abbott in the 2003 TV movie The Postcard Bandit.

Early Life and Education

Tom Long was born in Boston, Massachusetts, in the United States. His parents were Australian and were visiting there at the time. When they returned to Australia, Tom grew up on a farm near Benalla, Victoria.

Before becoming an actor, he worked on a farm as a jackaroo (a trainee on a sheep or cattle station). He also worked as a shearer, which means he cut the wool off sheep. After these experiences, he traveled to different countries like India and the United Kingdom.

When he came back to Australia, Tom got into the National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA). This is a famous school for actors. He finished his studies there in 1994.

Acting Career

Tom Long appeared in many Australian TV shows. One of his most popular roles was in SeaChange (1998–2000), a show from the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC). He also starred in the police drama Young Lions (2002).

He was also in Australian films like Two Hands (1999) and The Dish (2000). In 2003, he played Brenden Abbott in the TV movie The Postcard Bandit. He also appeared in the film The Book of Revelation.

Tom stopped acting in 2012. This was after he became unwell during a play performance at the Sydney Opera House.

Personal Life

Tom Long had a son named Ariel with actress Rachael Maza. He later married Rebecca Fleming in February 2019.

In 2012, Tom Long was diagnosed with a serious type of blood cancer. He received special medical treatments to help him get better. He even traveled for a special medical trial, and for a while, it seemed like he had beaten the cancer.

Sadly, Tom Long passed away on January 4, 2020, at the age of 51, due to a health issue called encephalitis.

Filmography

Film Roles

Television Roles