Kiwi screen legend Ian Watkin dies

  • 19/05/2016
(NZ On Screen archive)
(NZ On Screen archive)

Kiwi screen legend Ian Watkin has died, aged 76.

Watkin starred in classic Kiwi film Sleeping Dogs and Sir Peter Jackson's cult classic Brain Dead, and is remembered for his role in what some say is New Zealand television's best-ever ad, 'The Great Crunchie Train Robbery', where he played the man guarding the Crunchie Bars.

Watkin grew up on the West Coast near Greymouth and started his acting career in Wellington, with roles spanning comedy, drama, fringe and mainstream.

He also did some writing for television, including for Shortland Street.

Watkin relocated to Australia in 1999, where he became involved in the wine business.

Newshub.