Overview

James Condon was an Australian actor whose work spanned much of the 20th century and continued into the 21st. He became a familiar face on Australian television through numerous guest and recurring parts in police dramas, soap operas and serials. Condon is often remembered as a reliable character performer who contributed to many well‑known local productions.

Early life and background

Born in Fremantle, Western Australia, on 27 September 1923, Condon grew up in a family of Irish descent. His Perth origins linked him to the growing theatrical and broadcast communities in Australia during the mid‑1900s. For background information about his birthplace see Fremantle, and for notes on his heritage see Irish ancestry.

Career and notable appearances

Condon built a long career as a television actor, appearing in many of Australia’s prominent programs across genres. He was cast in episodic roles, longer story arcs and occasional recurring parts, contributing to the development of locally produced drama on the small screen. His credits include police procedurals, hospital dramadies and serial soap operas, reflecting the breadth of Australian television output in the decades after World War II.

  • The Story of Peter Grey
  • Homicide
  • Matlock Police
  • Number 96
  • Bellamy
  • The Young Doctors
  • Carson's Law
  • Sons and Daughters
  • Prisoner
  • The Flying Doctors
  • Neighbours
  • Blue Heelers
  • Something in the Air

Acting style and roles

Throughout his career Condon typically filled character roles that supported ensemble casts and ongoing series. He was respected for his professionalism, clear delivery and adaptability, qualities that made him a frequent choice for guest appearances and supporting parts across a variety of storylines. While not always in the leading spotlight, his steady presence helped shape many productions and gave credibility to the shows in which he appeared.

Personal life and legacy

James Condon was married to actress Anne Haddy, herself well known to Australian audiences. Haddy predeceased him in 1999. Condon died on 14 February 2014 at the age of 90 and was survived by four daughters: Elizabeth, Susan, Katherine and Mary‑Jane. His long service to television is remembered by colleagues and viewers who recall the many series to which he contributed.

Notable facts

  1. Condon’s career reflects the growth of Australian television drama from the 1950s onward and the reliance of serial production on experienced character actors.
  2. He worked across a wide range of program types, from police dramas and hospital stories to serialised soap operas.
  3. Further biographical or archival material about his life and work may be found through dedicated local resources and broadcast archives; see also links above for basic references (place of birth, ancestry, and a catalog entry for one of his better‑known series, Neighbours).