New Zealand actor Bruce Allpress died on Thursday at the age of 89.
The award-winning actor died peacefully at his home surrounded by his family, according to a statement from his family.
The actor was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)—a disease that causes the death of neurons controlling voluntary muscles—six months ago.
“He was very accepting of the vast diversity that humanity presents and very much an independent thinker,” Michael told Stuff. “He was a valuable and wise contributor over the years at Allpress Coffee. He will be missed dearly.”
Long History of Acting
Born on Aug. 25, 1930, Allpress was raised in Dunedin and started his acting career in the 1960s, where he first had a role in a vaudeville act called The Cheeseman Singer Series.“His love for the performing arts was inspired by his mum, who took Bruce on outings to amateur theater productions while growing up in Dunedin,” the Allpress family said in a statement.
He later appeared in television series and soaps with roles in series like “Hunter’s Gold,” and “Close to Home.”
For the iconic series “Jocko,” the long-time actor was awarded the Feltex Television Award for Best Actor in 1981 and 1983.
Allpress also had starring roles in “The Water Horse,” and performed in several episodes in the 1990s television series “Hercules: The Legendary Journeys.”
He also had a featured role in the Oscar-winning movie “The Scarecrow.”
Allpress was a husband and father of five children: Susan, Jane, Michael, Anna, and Peter.
