Acclaimed indigenous actor Tom E Lewis dies aged 59

Renowned Northern Territory Indigenous musician and actor Tom E Lewis has died suddenly at the age of 59, his family has confirmed.

In a statement, his family said the The Chant of Jimmie Blacksmith star died on Thursday night.

He led an "extraordinary public life" and will be greatly missed, they said.

"Mr Lewis will be forever remembered for his compelling and enduring work on stage and screen for over 40 years, as a renowned musician and as the driving force and vision behind Djilpin Arts," the statement read.

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