The Australian entertainment industry is mourning the loss of one of its most recognisable faces from the golden age of television. Actress Candy Raymond, who became a household name in the 1970s and 80s, has died at the age of 75.
A Defining Presence on the Small Screen
Raymond's career skyrocketed during a transformative period for Australian television. She is perhaps best remembered for her boundary-pushing role in the controversial and wildly popular 1970s soap opera, Number 96. Her scantily clad performances captivated audiences nationwide and cemented her status as one of the country's earliest television sex symbols.
Her talent and fame were further solidified with a major role in the iconic jailbird drama, Prisoner. In the series, Raymond played journalist Sandra Hamilton, bringing a different kind of strength and tenacity to the screen. These two roles alone made her one of the most familiar and beloved personalities in Australian living rooms for over a decade.
A Career Beyond Television
While television made her a star, Candy Raymond's work extended into other celebrated areas of Australian entertainment. She showcased her versatility with an appearance in the iconic Australian film Don's Party, directed by Bruce Beresford. She also demonstrated a flair for comedy with a guest spot on the legendary The Norman Gunston Show, proving her range as a performer.
Her performances during the 1970s and 80s helped define a generation of local entertainment. At a time when Australian content was finding its bold, unique voice, Raymond was at the forefront, breaking new ground for actresses and leaving an indelible mark on the cultural landscape.
Legacy of a Television Pioneer
The news of Candy Raymond's passing has prompted a wave of nostalgia and tributes from fans and contemporaries alike. She is remembered not just for her roles, but for the era she represented—a time of daring storytelling and the rise of distinctly Australian television that commanded national attention.
Her death marks the end of a chapter for an industry she helped shape. Candy Raymond's contribution to Australian film and television remains a significant part of the nation's entertainment history. She will be remembered as a pioneer whose work on shows like Number 96 and Prisoner continues to resonate with those who witnessed the golden age of Aussie TV.
