David Stratton dies at 85 tributes pour in

The Australian film critic and former SBS presenter David Stratton has died at age 85, drawing tributes from fans and public figures.

David Stratton dies at 85 tributes pour in

David Stratton, 85, a revered Australian film critic and former SBS presenter, has died in a Sydney hospital. The family confirmed the death in a statement, noting his lifelong love of cinema and gratitude for the support he received. Stratton arrived in Australia in 1963 under the Ten Pound Pom scheme and built a career that included directing the Sydney Film Festival in 1966 and co hosting The Movie Show on SBS from 1986 to 2004, among other roles.

Stratton helped shape a generation of cinema lovers by turning television into a space for thoughtful discussion about film. His work bridged Australian stories with global cinema, making big screen culture accessible through approachable on screen conversations. In a media era that now leans toward rapid takes and algorithms, his steady, informed voice offered a rare form of cultural leadership.

The loss also invites debate about how public broadcasters sustain high quality film criticism as audiences fragment across streaming platforms and social feeds. Stratton's legacy challenges future critics to preserve depth and curiosity even as the media landscape shifts toward shorter formats and more personalized recommendations.

Highlights

The screen remembers him as a steady guide to the art of storytelling.