Australian actor Terence Donovan has died at the age of 90, his son, actor and singer Jason Donovan, has confirmed.
Jason announced the heartbreaking news in a statement shared on Saturday, revealing that his father passed away peacefully at Cabrini Hospital in Melbourne after experiencing age-related health complications.
“It is with great sadness but also a sense of celebration of a long, full life that my brother Paul and I announce our father Terence died peacefully last night here in Melbourne,” Jason said.
He also expressed his family’s gratitude to the medical team who cared for his father during his final days.
“We want to pay tribute to all the wonderful staff at Cabrini Hospital, Melbourne, who looked after him in his final days,” he added, while asking for privacy as the family mourns their loss.
Jason concluded his tribute by sharing how deeply he will miss his father, describing the loss as an incredibly emotional time for the family.
A Distinguished Career in Australian Television
Born in England, Terence Donovan moved to Australia with his family at the age of 14. Before pursuing acting, he worked as a truck driver and house painter.
He married television presenter Sue McIntosh in 1965, and the couple welcomed their son, Jason, in 1968. After their marriage ended seven years later, Terence married Marlene Saunders in 1981.
Terence became one of Australia’s most recognisable television stars during the 1970s and 1980s. He earned widespread acclaim for his roles as Detective Mick Peters in Division 4 and Detective Senior Sergeant Vic Cameron in Cop Shop, cementing his place as a respected figure in Australian television.
His acting legacy continued through his family. In a memorable moment, Terence appeared alongside his son Jason in the final episodes of Neighbours. The family connection extended to a third generation with Jason’s daughter, Jemma Donovan, who portrayed Harlow Robinson on the long-running soap between 2019 and 2022.
Tributes Pour In
Following the announcement of Terence Donovan’s death, friends, colleagues, and fans shared heartfelt messages of support for Jason and his family.
Singer and television personality Dannii Minogue wrote, “I am so sorry you have lost your father. I love hearing about his achievements—this one here is incredible, and it is lovely to see how proud you are.”
Television presenter Gaby Roslin also offered her condolences, saying, “I am so sorry, Jason, for your loss. Sending you and your family my deepest sympathies, love and strength. He’ll always be in your heart.”
Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced by the Donovan family.