On October 9, 2023, Sri Lanka lost one of its most beloved actors, Jackson Anthony. He passed away at the age of 65 while receiving treatment following an accident in July 2022[2][4]. Jackson Anthony was a multi-talented artist with expertise in acting, directing, producing, singing, songwriting, and writing. He was born on July 8, 1958, in the village of Ragama Podivy Kumbura. He received his education at Hapugoda Junior College, Bandarawela Saint Mary's, and Galahitiyava Madhya Maha Vidyalaya. He earned an Honors Degree in Sinhala Language from the University of Colombo and a Master's Degree in Journalism from the University of Sri Jayawardenepura[1].
A Versatile Career
Jackson Anthony’s contribution to the Sri Lankan cinema, stage, and television was immense. Over the years, he excelled as an actor, director, producer, singer, screenwriter, television presenter, novelist, columnist, lyricist, historian, and tourist. Notably, he holds the record for winning the Best Actor award a remarkable sixteen times[1][4]. During his acting career, he has garnered more than 20 Best Actor Awards at local award ceremonies such as Sarasavi Awards, Presidential Awards, and OCIC Awards[1].
Jackson Anthony also made his mark as a film director, introducing historical narratives to Sri Lankan cinema. His films, such as "Juliet's Role," "Paradisaya," "Aba," and "Address Na," contributed significantly to the world of Sinhalese cinema[2]. In addition to his contributions to the arts, Jackson Anthony was also known for his innovations and fresh perspectives in the field.
A Tragic End
Jackson Anthony’s passing follows a lengthy stay in the hospital after his vehicle collided with a wild elephant in Thalawa. He was hospitalized after the accident and passed away while receiving treatment at the Colombo National Hospital[2][4]. The funeral of veteran Sri Lankan actor Jackson Anthony will be held this week. The body of the late actor will be placed at the ‘Jayaratne Respect Home’ Funeral Parlour in Colombo from 07.30 am to 11.00 pm tomorrow (Oct 10) and will be open to the public to pay their respects. The final rites of veteran Sri Lankan actor Jackson Anthony will be performed on Thursday (Oct. 12) at the St. Peter & Paul’s Church in Ragama at 03.00 p.m. [6].
A Legacy to Remember
Jackson Anthony leaves behind his loving wife, actress, and singer Kumari Munasinghe, and their children Sajitha Anuttara, Akila Dhanuddhara, and Madhavi Vatsala. His passing leaves a void in the world of art, but his legacy lives on through the artists he inspired and the contributions he made to Sri Lankan culture. Sri Lanka has lost a true icon, but his memory will live on forever[2][4].
Conclusion
Jackson Anthony was a true legend in the Sri Lankan entertainment industry. His contributions to cinema, stage, and television were immense, and his versatility as an artist was unparalleled. His passing is a great loss to the Sri Lankan arts community, but his legacy will continue to inspire generations of artists to come. Rest in peace, Jackson Anthony.
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