How a chance audition turned a law student into an Australian cinema icon
In short: In 1974, Tom Burlinson was on a path toward a legal career. A single recommendation from a friend changed everything, leading him to a dramatic arts education and eventually to the lead role in Australia's biggest film production of its time.
Born in Toronto in 1956, Burlinson’s early life was marked by significant movement. After his family migrated from Britain to Canada, they moved to New Jersey in 1958, returned to Britain in 1962, and eventually settled in Australia in 1965. Following his parents' divorce shortly after arriving in Australia, Burlinson remained with his father and older sister, Susan.
His transition from student to star was remarkably rapid. Despite his father’s wishes for him to practice law, Burlinson auditioned for the National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA) after a friend's success inspired him. He joined the 1974 class and graduated in 1976. After early work with the Queensland Theatre Company and Twelfth Night Theatre, he found television fame in the soap opera The Restless Years, playing Mickey Pratt for 16 months starting in 1979.
The definitive turning point arrived in 1981 when he was cast as Jim Craig in The Man from Snowy River. Tasked with learning to ride a horse in just a few weeks, Burlinson discovered a natural affinity for the animals. The 1982 film became the highest-grossing Australian film of its era, catapulting him to stardom. He followed this success with roles in Phar Lap: Heart of a Nation and the sci-fi film The Time Guardian.
Beyond the screen, Burlinson has maintained a diverse career as a singer and stage performer. Driven by a lifelong passion for Frank Sinatra, he transitioned into musical tributes, including his show Frank – The Sinatra Story in Song, which toured from 1998 to 2003. His versatility has seen him move from hosting Animal Hospital to starring in Mel Brooks' The Producers.
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