Diane Cliento dies

Legendary Australian theatre actress Diane Clineto has died, reports say.

Legendary Australian theatre actress Diane Clineto has died.

It is understood that the actress passed away in Cairns overnight, aged 78.

She was born in 1933 in Mooloolaba in Queensland, and had a distinguished career in theatre and film.  

The QLD Premier, Anna Bligh paid tribute to the actress, saying she made a valuable contribution to the arts scene in QLD. 

“While she was originally known as a glamorous international film star, her work in later years in the far north showed her commitment to the arts. She appeared on stage in Brisbane a number of times with the Queensland Theatre Company including in the spectacular production The Three Legends of Kra as part of QPAC’s Opening Celebrations in April 1985″, said Ms Bligh.

In 1956, Cliento was nominated for a Tony Award for Best Supporting or Featured Actress for Tiger at the Gates, and in 1963 was nominated for an Oscar for her role Molly in Tom Jones.

She also attracted international attention as the wife of actor, Sean Connery.

Cliento, in her most recent years, ran the Karnak Playhouse, a rainforest theatre in Cairns.

“I know that Ms Cilento will be sorely missed by many in the industry and I offer my sincere condolences to her family, friends and all those who enjoyed her important contribution to the arts here in Queensland”, Ms Bligh said.