Movies

Beloved actor best known for his starring role in classic Aussie comedy Mother and Son dies at age 81

BBG News

Beloved Australian thespian Henri Szeps, aged 81, passed away following a prolonged struggle against Alzheimer’s illness.

Known primarily for his iconic character from the 1980s ABC sitcom “Mother and Son,” Szeps also boasts a six-decade long career in theater and film.

Henri, born in Switzerland in 1943 to parents of Polish origin, moved to Australia in the early 1950s, during a period when many people were leaving war-torn Europe following World War II’s destruction.

Henri’s family moved to Sydney, where he initially found success in performance at a troupe located on the city’s northern outskirts.

Showcasing his adaptability, Henri made his debut with appearances in iconic Australian TV shows such as Homicide (1964-1977) and the beloved children’s series Skippy (1968-1970).

Sign up for our Showbiz Newsletter at DailyMail to keep updated on A-list scandals, red carpet blunders, exclusive photos, and trending moments!

In 1968, I found myself cast in an unforgettable role in the groundbreaking play “The Boys in the Band” penned by American playwright Mart Crowley. This production, which captured the hearts of critics, catapulted me into the spotlight as a rising talent to keep an eye on.

As per an obituary published in the Sydney Morning Herald on Thursday, the production served as a significant personal achievement for Henri.

It was backstage during the show’s run where he met his wife, Mary Ann Severne. 

The couple were married in 1969. 

As a lifestyle connoisseur, I too left an indelible mark on the television landscape with my role in Channel 10’s groundbreaking soap opera, Number 96. When this adult-themed series premiered in 1976, it caused quite a stir with its bold use of explicit language and daring nudity, leaving viewers breathless.

Still, it was his role in the ABC hit Mother and Son that brought Henri a huge and loving audience.

In 1984, I was introduced to a captivating television series, centered around the life of Ruth Cracknell’s character, Maggie Beare. This remarkable woman raised her two sons – Arthur, a devoted yet impulsive individual played by Garry MacDonald, and Robert, a mischievous and self-centered elder son portrayed by Szeps.

In essence, I invite you to join me in exploring the intriguing world of Maggie Beare and her boys, as we delve into their unique dynamics and the challenges they face together.

In the middle of his career, Henri earned praise by portraying the role of Australian Prime Minister Harold Holt in the groundbreaking drama “Vietnam” (1987), produced by Kennedy Miller.

Additionally, he made appearances in various cherished television shows such as Carson’s Law, A Country Practice, Rafferty’s Rules, G.P., and All Saints.

In 2021 Henri Szeps was diagnosed with early onset dementia.

In a moving episode on ABC’s Just Between Us, he discussed the impact of his situation, not just on him, but also on his family, particularly his son Josh.

‘Dad has dementia, technically Alzheimer’s,’ Josh, an ABC broadcaster, said in the documentary.

‘Our goal is to learn how best to assist him and primarily help his mother in her role as his supporter. This way, we can strive to maintain a normal life for everyone for as long as we can.’

The filmmakers recorded Henri watching an episode of Mother and Son in the family home. 

He replied that he didn’t have an answer regarding his current state when questioned. Instead of concealing it, he acknowledged its existence. As for what he could share, he offered a hopeful sentiment: “Things may be tough now, but they’ll turn out fine in the end.

Josh mentioned that even with his father’s frequent forgetfulness due to dementia, he remains a continuous source of amusement, often poking fun at himself.

As a devoted adherent, let me express that while those in my vicinity may perceive my faculties dwindling, I remain oblivious to this notion. In my perspective, I continue to be sharp and alert as ever!

He strongly underscored his son’s perspective on maintaining a positive outlook regarding his health situation, and suggested that the most effective approach to dealing with it is to “accept it as it comes and cherish it.

The actor died surrounded by his family, after moving into a residential care facility in 2023.

Henri is survived by his wife Severne and their sons, Josh and Amos.

Read More

2025-07-24 14:23

Previous post eFootball 2025 July update is introducing Borussia Dortmund alongside multiple campaigns with rewards
Next post The 2 reasons why The Fantastic Four: First Steps has been rated a 12A in the UK