Jackson Anthony, a Srilankan Actor, Died of Severe Injuries Sustained in a Tragic Accident

May 2024 · 3 minute read

(Colombo, Sri Lanka) – On Monday, October 9, 2023, Sri Lanka mourns the loss of veteran actor Jackson Anthony, who succumbed to his injuries at the National Hospital in Colombo. Anthony, aged 65 at the time of his passing, had been undergoing treatment for 14 months.

Cause of Death

Anthony suffered severe injuries in a tragic accident on July 2, 2022. His car collided with a wild elephant in Thalawa. The massive collision resulted from an elephant’s attack on the vehicle carrying Jackson Anthony and two other passengers.

They had just concluded filming a movie at Haththikuchchi Viharaya in Galgamuwa and were en route to Colombo. The collision with the wild elephant in Thalawa injured Anthony and two other individuals, including his younger brother, Saman Anthony. The vehicle sustained significant damage, and it is possible that the wild elephant also suffered severe injuries.

Following the accident, Anthony underwent a seven-hour surgery in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at the National Hospital in Colombo, where he had been receiving treatment since being transferred from the Anuradhapura Teaching Hospital.

Srijith Jayashan confirmed the sad news of his passing through a Facebook post, stating:

“Jackson Anthony, a seasoned actor from Sri Lanka, has left us after a 14-month battle at the National Hospital in Colombo. He was 65. The well-known actor had been hospitalized since the unfortunate incident on July 2, 2022, when the car he and two other passengers were in collided with a wild elephant in Thalawa, resulting in injuries.”

His passing has left a void in the hearts of his community, loved ones, and fans. Our thoughts and condolences go out to his family, friends, and the entire community during this difficult time. Funeral and burial arrangements have yet to be announced.

About Jackson Anthony

A versatile artist, Jackson Anthony was celebrated for his acting prowess and versatility as a director, producer, singer, screenwriter, television host, novelist, columnist, lyricist, historian, and explorer.

Born on July 8, 1958, in the village of Ragama Podivy Kumbura, he received his education at Galahitiyava Madhya Maha Vidyalaya, Bandarawela Saint Mary’s, and Hapugoda Junior College. He earned a master’s degree in journalism from the University of Sri Jayawardenepura and a bachelor’s degree with honors in the Sinhala language from the University of Colombo.

Throughout his illustrious career, Jackson Anthony was one of Sri Lanka’s most beloved figures in theater, television, and film, having won the Best Actor award in the country 16 times. His remarkable performances in various theatrical productions left an indelible mark on the stage, with plays like “Varuyan Mana” and “Manavayo” among his most notable works.

Anthony’s Career in the Industry

In 1993, Anthony made his cinematic debut in movies such as “Guru Gedara,” “Chitti,” “Ayoma,” and “Loku Duwa.” He subsequently established himself as a leading actor in films like “Bawa Duka,” “Bawa Karma,” “Gini Awi Saha Gini Keli,” “Aswesuma,” “Agni Dahaya,” “Sooriya Arana,” “Mille Soya,” and “R’andiya Dahara.”

On the small screen, he became a prominent figure through serials like “Palingu Manike,” “Ella Langa Walawwa,” “Suseema,” “Weda Hamine,” “Kadulla,” “Pitagamgarayo,” and “Akala Sandya.” His exceptional talent earned him the Best Actor accolade at the Sumathi Awards for his role in the television series “Pitagamkarayo.”

Jackson Anthony’s directorial work in the world of Sinhalese cinema, including movies like “Juliet’s Role,” “Paradisaya,” “Aba,” and “Address Na,” made a significant impact and showcased his innovative approach to filmmaking.

In addition to his artistic contributions, Jackson Anthony was known for his innovative ideas and fresh perspectives in the industry.

His wife, actress and singer Kumari Munasinghe, and his children, Sajitha Anuttara, Akila Dhanuddhara, and Madhavi Vatsala, survived him. His passing has left a void in the art world, but his influence on fellow artists and his contributions to Sri Lankan culture ensure that his legacy will endure. Rest in Peace, Jackson Anthony.

Source: uptospeedjournalism.com

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