Jerome Francis Ehlers (20 December 1958 – 9 August 2014) was an Australian actor and screenwriter known for steady work in film, television and theatre. Over three decades he built a reputation as a versatile character performer, appearing in Australian cinema and international productions while also contributing as a writer. His career combined supporting roles in high-profile movies with recurring television appearances.
Career and notable roles
Ehlers worked across genres, from crime dramas to historical films and action pictures. He is remembered for film appearances such as Two Hands, the bushranger drama Ned Kelly, and the Hollywood action film The Marine. For a broader view of his screen credits see a summary of his filmography. On television he made guest and recurring appearances, including on family and drama series such as The New Adventures of Flipper and the ensemble show House Husbands, earning recognition for dependable supporting work.
Screenwriting and other creative work
In addition to acting, Ehlers wrote for the screen. He received credit as the writer of the feature After the Rain (2000), which showcased his interest in character-driven storytelling. His dual activity as an actor and writer allowed him to engage with projects from both sides of the camera and collaborate with Australian filmmakers across independent and mainstream productions.
Background and personal life
Ehlers was born and raised in Perth, in the state of Western Australia. He was married twice and is survived by two sons, Ethan and Jackson. Colleagues remembered him for his professional commitment and his supportive presence on set; friends and collaborators have noted his contribution to the local performing arts community.
Illness, death and legacy
Jerome Ehlers died after a battle with cancer on 9 August 2014 in Sydney, New South Wales, at the age of 55. Following his passing, tributes highlighted the breadth of his work and the steady craftsmanship he brought to every role. While he rarely held lead billing in major international pictures, his career is illustrative of the many professional actors who form the backbone of national cinema and television, leaving a body of work that continues to be discovered by audiences and students of screen performance.
- Selected films: Two Hands, Ned Kelly, The Marine.
- Selected television: The New Adventures of Flipper, House Husbands.
- Notable writing credit: After the Rain.
For further information and a consolidated list of credits, consult available industry profiles and archives that track Australian screen artists and their contributions to film and television history.