Tributes pour in after the passing of Sri Lankan actor Jackson Anthony
Jackson Anthony, a veteran figure in Sri Lankan cinema and television, died at the age of 65 following a prolonged period of medical care at Colombo National Hospital. The news was reported by multiple outlets, including Adaderana, marking the end of a celebrated career that spanned decades.
Anthony’s death comes after a severe accident in which his vehicle collided with a wild elephant. The incident occurred on July 2, 2022, as the actor was returning from a shoot at Hattikuchchi Viharaya in Galgamuwa. Reports indicate that Anthony and two others, including his younger brother Saman, sustained injuries in the collision, necessitating urgent medical attention.
Following the crash, the actor underwent a seven-hour surgical procedure in the intensive care unit and remained under medical care for a lengthy period. Observers noted that the animal involved in the collision may have sustained serious injuries as a result of the encounter. The extended treatment period reflected the critical nature of the injuries and the delicate medical response required to stabilize him.
Anthony began his cinematic journey in 1993 and grew to become a sought‑after presence in Sri Lankan cinema and television. Over the years, he appeared in a wide array of films and television series, earning recognition for his performances. He was honored with the national Best Actor award an impressive sixteen times, underscoring his influence and versatility in the local industry.
In a separate note on notable figures in the broader entertainment world, the film and theater director Sergei Zubenko was reported to have passed away. Zubenko was known for his involvement in the serialized film by Sergei Ursulyak titled Quiet Don, released in 2015 and based on the novel by Mikhail Sholokhov, along with the television series Bad Weather. These tribute notices reflect the ongoing legacy of performers and creators who have shaped regional storytelling across cinema and television.
Meanwhile, public reactions from colleagues and fans have included remarks and gestures of remembrance. One notable moment involved Sergey Zhukov reacting with a production catchphrase upon hearing news related to a former participant of a program, illustrating how the entertainment community often units in shared moments of mourning and memory.