Frank Wilson, a multifaceted individual, departed from his educational pursuits at the tender age of 13, opting instead to enlist in the Australian Army in 1943. This bold decision was motivated by a desire to evade the wartime Manpower Directorite and the prospect of being assigned to a "useful" job.
Within the military, Wilson flourished as a signalman in the 7th Division, 2nd AIF, serving in Papua New Guinea and Borneo during the latter stages of World War II. His military tenure concluded in late 1945, marking the beginning of his journey towards a life of artistic expression.
The year 1948 saw Wilson embark on an acting career that would span nearly six decades, until his passing in 2005. His early years in the entertainment industry were marked by a remarkable 12-year run as the compere for the Nine Network's popular program "New Faces," for which he received the prestigious Logie Award for best compere in 1972. However, his tenure was eventually brought to a close in 1976, when he was succeeded by the renowned Bert Newton.
In 1977, Wilson originated the role of 'Jock' in the Melbourne Theatre Company's production of David Williamson's acclaimed play "The Club." This performance was later reprised in the 1980 film adaptation, directed by Bruce Beresford and starring Jack Thompson and Graham Kennedy.
Throughout his illustrious career, Wilson had the privilege of sharing the stage with a diverse range of talented individuals. One notable example is his starring role opposite Lauren Bacall, Colin Friels, and Anne-Louise Lambert in the 1986 Australian tour of Tennessee Williams' classic play "Sweet Bird Of Youth," in which he portrayed the character 'Boss Finlay.'
Wilson's impressive body of work was recognized with a well-deserved award at the New York Film and Video Festival, a distinction that he received just one day prior to his passing at the age of 81.
