John Fegan actor

John Joseph Fegan (19 July 1908 – 9 April 1981) was a Northern Irish-Australian actor known for his roles in Australian film and television during the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s. Born in Belfast, he moved to Australia in 1929, working as a laborer and harbourside worker during the Great Depression. Fegan became involved in Sydney's worker's theatre movement, earning positive reviews for his performances. He served in the Australian Army during World War II in New Guinea.

Fegan gained prominence playing Inspector Jack Connelly in the groundbreaking Australian television series *Homicide*, which proved the viability of local programming and inspired future police dramas. His character reflected Irish influences in Australian policing, leveraging his Belfast accent. The show's accuracy often led viewers to mistake actors for real officers. Fegan left *Homicide* in 1969, and in 2007, he was featured on a commemorative stamp celebrating 50 years of Australian television.

Post-*Homicide*, Fegan guest-starred in episodes of other series, including *Division 4*, where his performance earned him a Logie Award. He also appeared uncredited in the 1960 film *The Sundowners*. Notably, during filming, Robert Mitchum referenced Fegan's role in a brawl scene.

Fegan was politically active, involved with left-wing movements like the Communist Party of Australia and the Unemployed Workers Movement, influenced by his experiences as a Belfast Catholic and the Great Depression. His activism reflected his radicalized views during his early life.