Movies

Aussie film legend who produced The Flying Doctors and Cop Shop dies after long cancer battle

BBG News

Renowned Australian filmmaker, Ian Crawford, passed away at the age of 91 on Wednesday, following a prolonged struggle against spinal cancer.

Born to Dorothy Crawford, a trailblazing Australian film producer who established Crawford Productions, he chose to walk in his mother’s professional footsteps within the film industry.

Established back in 1945, Crawford Productions held a distinguished position in Australian cinema for numerous years, creating some of the nation’s cherished television programs.

His death was confirmed in a heartbreaking social media statement from a family member.

‘Very sad to report the passing this morning at 9.00 of Ian Crawford,’ they began.

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‘He died peacefully with family and loved ones at his bedside. He was 91.’

In the past month, Carole, his wife, posted an emotional message on social media about her husband’s deteriorating health, informing everyone that he was admitted to a hospital in Melbourne.

Carole shared that Ian is receiving hospice care at Cabrini in Malvern, following several weeks of intense back discomfort. It was recently found that he has cancer that originated in his spine and has now advanced to his abdomen.

He’s constantly cared for, not just by the staff but also by his kids and extended family.

Heartbroken fans took to social media to pay tribute to Crawford.

‘RIP Ian. Sending condolences to the Crawford family,’ one person wrote.

‘I loved his shows. They kept me entertained,’ a second added. 

Over more than three decades in the television industry, dating back to the 1950s and lasting through the 1980s, Crawford played a significant role in developing many popular Australian TV programs.

Additionally, they were responsible for creating the groundbreaking TV series “Division 4” and “Cop Shop”, along with the popular medical drama “The Flying Doctors”.

Additionally, he oversaw numerous television productions, such as installments from The Last of the Australians, Matlock Police, and Skyways.

Throughout his professional journey, Crawford collaborated extensively with some of Australia’s most adored acting talents, such as John Farnham, Rebecca Gibney, and Sigrid Thornton.

He leaves behind his spouse Carole, as well as their two offspring, Chris (son) and Anna (daughter), who appeared in various of his productions such as The Flying Doctors and Cop Shop.

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2025-06-04 08:19

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