Jacqueline McKenzie
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Jacqueline Susan McKenzie (born 24 October 1967) is an Australian film and stage actress.


Early life

Born in
Sydney Sydney ( ) is the capital city of the state of New South Wales, and the most populous city in both Australia and Oceania. Located on Australia's east coast, the metropolis surrounds Sydney Harbour and extends about towards the Blue Mountain ...
, New South Wales, McKenzie attended Wenona School in North Sydney until 1983 then moved to Pymble Ladies' College, where she graduated in 1985 with her Higher School Certificate. Known at school for her fine singing voice, McKenzie was cast as Nancy in ''
Oliver! ''Oliver!'' is a coming-of-age stage musical, with book, music and lyrics by Lionel Bart. The musical is based upon the 1838 novel '' Oliver Twist'' by Charles Dickens. It premiered at the Wimbledon Theatre, southwest London in 1960 before op ...
'' then in '' Godspell'' (both a co-production with Shore School) and later in '' Brigadoon'' (a co-production with Knox Grammar School), sharing the stage with Hugh Jackman, who was a student at Knox at the time.


Career


Early years

McKenzie studied for a Bachelor of Arts degree at the University of New South Wales. While at university, she began modelling. Represented by Cameron's Management, she worked in both print and television media. She also took regular singing lessons with Australian vocal coach Bob Tasman-Smith. In 1987, McKenzie was cast as the lead in the pilot of television series '' All The Way'' alongside Ben Mendelsohn, Robert Mammone, Rowena Wallace and Martin Sacks. During this time, she came to the attention of casting agent
Liz Mullinar Elizabeth Laura Mullinar (née, Hopkinson) is a London-born former film casting consultant. She is one of the founders of Advocates for Survivors of Child Abuse (now Blue Knot Foundation) and is the Founder of the Heal For Life Foundation (form ...
, who had cast Judy Davis in '' My Brilliant Career'' and Nicole Kidman in '' Dead Calm''. Following advice from Mullinar, McKenzie auditioned for the National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA) and was accepted. Opting out of both her arts degree and ''All The Way'', McKenzie attended NIDA in 1988. She graduated in December 1990.


1991 to 1995

In 1991, McKenzie was awarded "Best Newcomer Award" from the Sydney Theatre Critics Circle, which recognised her
chameleon Chameleons or chamaeleons (family Chamaeleonidae) are a distinctive and highly specialized clade of Old World lizards with 202 species described as of June 2015. The members of this family are best known for their distinct range of colors, bein ...
-like ability and her consistently high-calibre work in theatre productions ''Child Dancing'' (as Julie-Ann), '' The Master Builder'' (as Kaja), '' Twelfth Night'' (as Viola) and ''
Rebecca Rebecca, ; Syriac: , ) from the Hebrew (lit., 'connection'), from Semitic root , 'to tie, couple or join', 'to secure', or 'to snare') () appears in the Hebrew Bible as the wife of Isaac and the mother of Jacob and Esau. According to biblical ...
'' (as Mrs de Winter). During rehearsals for ''Rebecca'', director George Ogilvie allowed McKenzie time off to audition for a new Australian Independent feature film called '' Romper Stomper'' set to star
Russell Crowe Russell Ira Crowe (born 7 April 1964) is an actor. He was born in New Zealand, spent ten years of his childhood in Australia, and moved there permanently at age twenty one. He came to international attention for his role as Roman General Maxi ...
. She was subsequently cast in the film and went on to win Best Actress award at the Film Critics Circle of Australia. Russell would later say "Jacqui's range as an actor disappears over the horizon. And I'm not sure it can actually be defined. When I first saw her, in the play ''Rebecca'', I saw an actor whom I thought was blowing me on the skin from the inside. She is an actor who is both delicate and magical." In her "nothing short of stunning" film debut in ''Romper Stomper'', McKenzie was described as "especially shining in her courage, truth and skill." The role garnered her attention overseas, where she won Best Actress at the 1992
Stockholm International Film Festival The Stockholm International Film Festival ( sv, Stockholms filmfestival, italic=no) is an annual film festival held in Stockholm, Sweden. It was launched in 1990 and has been held every year since then during the second half of November. The w ...
for her "stark and non-sentimental portrayal of a young woman whose life has turned into a desperate chase for all she has lost: love, serenity, identity. Her character plays an essential part in creating the inexorable force and impact of the film." Over the next couple of years, she came to be regarded as one of Australia's most promising young actresses of stage and screen, showcasing a "phenomenal emotional range". In 1994, McKenzie starred alongside David Wenham, Geoffrey Rush and Richard Roxburgh in Shakespeare's ''Hamlet'', directed by
Neil Armfield Neil Geoffrey Armfield (born 22 April 1955) is an Australian director of theatre, film and opera. Biography Born in Sydney, Armfield is the third and youngest son of Len, a factory worker at the nearby Arnott's Biscuits factory and Nita Armf ...
, for Belvoir St Theatre, Sydney. This sellout production was a critical, award-winning success with McKenzie's performance "so exquisitely pitched it could have shattered glass". "Jacqueline McKenzie's fragile Ophelia, dressed in cottontails and a tail-coat, turning the stage into a mind-state of shattered glass. Her presence awesomely palpable because of its sheer intangibility." The production went on to tour to Melbourne but McKenzie was unable to continue due to other work commitments. (
Cate Blanchett Catherine Elise Blanchett (; born 14 May 1969) is an Australian actor. Regarded as one of the finest performers of her generation, she is known for her versatile work across independent films, blockbusters, and the stage. She has received nu ...
took over the role of Ophelia for the tour). McKenzie's performance in ''Hamlet'' was followed by her role as Joan of Arc in Bernard Shaw's '' Saint Joan'', directed by Gale Edwards for the
Sydney Theatre Company Sydney Theatre Company (STC) is an Australian theatre company based in Sydney, New South Wales. The company performs in The Wharf Theatre at Dawes Point in The Rocks area of Sydney, as well as the Roslyn Packer Theatre (formerly Sydney Thea ...
at the
Sydney Opera House The Sydney Opera House is a multi-venue performing arts centre in Sydney. Located on the foreshore of Sydney Harbour, it is widely regarded as one of the world's most famous and distinctive buildings and a masterpiece of 20th-century architec ...
. This was the first time Saint Joan had been staged in Australia since the Zoe Caldwell production in 1962. Regarded as one of "the most revealing tests of an actress", and as "the female Hamlet", Edwards' production was both a critical and box office sensation with McKenzie's performance unanimously acclaimed: "This play stands or falls on the performance of St Joan and McKenzie is simply superb." "From the moment she enters, she sets the stage ablaze. McKenzie is a Joan to make the theatrical heavens rejoice... McKenzie offers us Joan in all her innocence, ignorance, joyful goodness that seems to light her from within and, almost until the end, a youthful sense of fun. Her slight stature can seem waif thin, piteously vulnerable; but raging into battle she's tough and sturdy, a young woman of intense and convincing action. Always in focus, like an unwavering flame, is McKenzie's Joan the Maid" and "Here is a Joan with such fortitude and faith that seems hardly possible to exist within such a delicate frame. McKenzie's waif-like image conceals remarkable strength, and an almost inexhaustible supply of emotion. It is a Joan to inspire the tamest among us to stand up as individuals, and listen to the voices inside of us. Shaw himself would have been reluctantly impressed." Described by head of NIDA, John Clarke, as "A chameleon" "one of the most talented actresses we have produced... she's an absolute dynamo, a powerhouse," McKenzie had fast earned a reputation as one of the most versatile actresses of her generation, taking on varied and often difficult roles. Equally adept in drama or comedy, she was described as the "Judy Davis of her generation (or funnily enough, the green eyed American actor Meg Ryan)" In 1992, Ben Elton cast her as the lead role of "Rachel", the feisty environmentalist, in the television adaptation of his hit novel '' Stark''. The mini-series was a BBC/ABC comedy, was directed by
Nadia Tass Nadia Tass is an Australian theatre director and film director and producer. She is known for the films ''Malcolm'' (1986) and '' The Big Steal'' (1990), as well as an extensive body of work in the theatre, both in Australia and internationa ...
and co-starred Ben Elton and Colin Friels. McKenzie received an
Australian Film Institute The Australian Film Institute (AFI) was founded in 1958 as a non-profit organisation devoted to developing an active film culture in Australia and fostering engagement between the general public and the Australian film industry. It is responsib ...
Award nomination for Best Actress in a Miniseries for the role. The same year (1993), she scored a Best Actress in a Feature Film nomination for her comedic turn in the indie comedy, ''
This Won't Hurt a Bit ''This Won't Hurt a Bit'' is a 1993 Australian comedy film. It was directed by Chris Kennedy. According to Ozmovies, Those searching for the source of inspiration for writer/director and co-producer Chris Kennedy need look no further than his ...
'', playing Vanessa Presscott, a nerdy English ingénue with a speech impediment. In 1994, McKenzie reunited with director George Ogilvie (who had directed her in ''Rebecca'' and ''Twelfth Night'') to play the lead role of Dancy Smith in the adaptation of Kylie Tennant's famous depression-era drama '' The Battlers''. The mini-series co-starred Gary Sweet and played on the Seven Network. McKenzie was nominated again for Best Actress in a TV Drama at the Australian Film Institute 1994 awards. That same year, McKenzie was also nominated for Best Supporting Actress in the feature film ''
Traps TNF receptor associated periodic syndrome (TRAPSsubscription needed) is a periodic fever syndrome associated with mutations in a receptor (biochemistry), receptor for the molecule tumor necrosis factors, tumor necrosis factor (TNF) that is inheri ...
'', directed by Pauline Chan. Playing the French girl living in Colonial Vietnam, McKenzie got to showcase her versatility by speaking in both French and Vietnamese for the role. In 1995, McKenzie made Australian Film Institute history by winning the Beyond Best Actress in a Leading Role for '' Angel Baby'' and the Beyond Best Actress Award in a TV Drama for ''
Halifax f.p. ''Halifax f.p.'' is an Australian television crime series produced by Nine Network from 1994 to 2002. The series stars Rebecca Gibney as Doctor Jane Halifax, a forensic psychiatrist investigating cases involving the mental state of suspects or ...
'': Lies of the Mind. She also won the Silver Logie for Most Outstanding Actress at the
Logie Awards The Logie Awards (officially the TV Week Logie Awards; colloquially known as The Logies) is an annual gathering to celebrate Australian television, sponsored and organised by the magazine ''TV Week''. The first ceremony was held in 1959 as the ...
for her role in ''Halifax f.p.'' It was for playing the young lover Kate, opposite John Lynch's Harry in the Michael Rymer–helmed drama ''Angel Baby'', that McKenzie received international acclaim: The ''
LA Weekly ''LA Weekly'' is a free weekly alternative newspaper in Los Angeles, California. It was founded in 1978 by Jay Levin, who served as president and editor until 1991. Voice Media Group sold the paper in late 2017 to Semanal Media LLC, whose paren ...
'' reviewed: "McKenzie is a find. Whether using answers on the Wheel of Fortune as a kind of daily horoscope, or cringing in terror as the upright legs of chairs in an empty restaurant seem to whisper at her, she is blazingly equal to the extremes of animal panic and hyperconscious insight that are the north and south of this movie's humane compass." ''Angel Baby'' also featured actress Deborra-Lee Furness and Colin Friels. In 1996, McKenzie was awarded Australian Star of the Year at the Australian Movie Convention.


1996 to 2003

McKenzie ventured to the US, where she starred in the films '' Deep Blue Sea'' (1999) directed by Renny Harlin with Samuel L. Jackson, Thomas Jane and Michael Rapaport; '' Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood'' (2002) with
Sandra Bullock Sandra Annette Bullock (; born July 26, 1964) is an American actress and producer. The recipient of List of awards and nominations received by Sandra Bullock, various accolades, including an Academy Award and a Golden Globe Award, Bullock was ...
, Ashley Judd, Ellen Burstyn, Kiersten Warren and James Garner; ''
Freak Weather ''Freak Weather'' is a 1999 American drama film directed by Mary Kuryla and starring Jacqueline McKenzie, Jacob Chase and Aida Turturro. It based on Kuryla's short story of the same name. Plot A borderline unstable woman must take care of her ...
'', with Aida Turturro and John Carroll Lynch; '' Love from Ground Zero'' with Simon Baker and Pruitt Taylor Vince, as well as tele-movie '' When Billie Beat Bobby'', starring Holly Hunter and Ron Silver. She starred in the UK independent films '' Eisenstein'' with Simon McBurney and ''
Kiss Kiss (Bang Bang) ''Kiss Kiss (Bang Bang)'' is a 2001 British comedy film written and directed by Stewart Sugg. It features Stellan Skarsgård, Chris Penn, and Paul Bettany. Plot Felix is a hit-man who wants out of the business. He takes up a job to look aft ...
'' with Stellan Skarsgård, Chris Penn and Paul Bettany. In 2001, McKenzie was given a United States green card in March 2001 for "Person of Extraordinary Ability". She made her US theatre debut, starring as Rita in Willy Russell's '' Educating Rita'', at the Williamstown Theatre Festival directed by Bruce Paltrow and co-starring Edward Herrmann. It was a huge success. "This production had the inexhaustible talents of Jacqueline McKenzie, an utterly charming and irrepressible Australian, whose cockney accent was spot on and characterization was full-cocked. Bursting onto the stage like a fire-engine responding to a five-alarm conflagration, McKenzie was a dynamo with enough energy to fill simultaneous performances of this and
Pygmalion Pygmalion or Pigmalion may refer to: Mythology * Pygmalion (mythology), a sculptor who fell in love with his statue Stage * ''Pigmalion'' (opera), a 1745 opera by Jean-Philippe Rameau * ''Pygmalion'' (Rousseau), a 1762 melodrama by Jean-Jacques ...
(a sure bet for her if the WTF wants to bring her back – and it should). Suffice to say, hers will surely be among the most memorable and reason enough to revive ''Rita''." She was cast as a lead in the US television pilot for ABC called ''MEDS'' (later ''
MDs MDS or M.D.S. may refer to: Organizations * Brazilian Ministry of Social Development * Mennonite Disaster Service, a disaster relief volunteer group * Movement for Socialist Democracy (''Mouvement pour la Démocratie Socialiste''), a former politi ...
''), directed by Michael Hoffman and starring John Hannah. She played Dockdaisy in the National Actors Theatre / Complicite co-production of '' The Resistible Rise of Arturo Ui'', by
Bertolt Brecht Eugen Berthold Friedrich Brecht (10 February 1898 – 14 August 1956), known professionally as Bertolt Brecht, was a German theatre practitioner, playwright, and poet. Coming of age during the Weimar Republic, he had his first successes as a pl ...
. Directed by Simon McBurney this cast included
Al Pacino Alfredo James Pacino (; ; born April 25, 1940) is an American actor. Considered one of the most influential actors of the 20th century, he has received numerous accolades: including an Academy Award, two Tony Awards, and two Primetime Emmy ...
,
Steve Buscemi Steven Vincent Buscemi ( ,As stated in interviews by Buscemi himself, some may insist that his pronunciation of his own name is "wrong" because it does not match the original Italian pronunciation as well. It is not uncommon for people to pronou ...
,
Chazz Palminteri Calogero Lorenzo "Chazz" Palminteri (born May 15, 1952)
Chazzpalminteri.net. Retrieved on November 19, 2013.
is an American ...
, John Goodman, Paul Giamatti, Billy Crudup, Lothaire Bluteau, Linda Emond, Tony Randall and Charles Durning. After this production, McKenzie returned to Australia to star as Catherine in the Pulitzer Prize Winning play ''
Proof Proof most often refers to: * Proof (truth), argument or sufficient evidence for the truth of a proposition * Alcohol proof, a measure of an alcoholic drink's strength Proof may also refer to: Mathematics and formal logic * Formal proof, a con ...
'' by
David Auburn David Auburn (born 30 November 1969) is an American playwright, screenwriter and theatre director. He is best known for his 2000 play '' Proof'', which won the 2001 Tony Award for Best Play and Pulitzer Prize for Drama. He also wrote the screen ...
. Directed by George Ogilvie and starring Barry Otto, Christina Eliason, and Jonny Pasvolsky, this "tour de force from McKenzie" broke all previously held box office records at the Sydney Opera House, Drama Theatre. Mckenzie followed the success of ''Proof'' by taking the lead role of Jude in the Australian feature film '' Peaches'', starring Hugo Weaving and Emma Lung. Directed by Craig Monahan, the role garnered McKenzie a Best Actress Award from the Film Critics Circle of Australia with her performance described as a "revelation": "never more so than in the scene where she sings 'The Carnival Is Over' across a pub counter." From ''Peaches'', McKenzie began work with Paul Cox ('' Man of Flowers'', '' Innocence'') in the feature film '' Human Touch'' starring as a young chorister estranged from her husband: "McKenzie makes Anna's sensual awakening both sensual and real".


2004 to 2015

In 2004, McKenzie made the switch to prime-time television in a role that would catapult her to international stardom. Cast as the lead female detective Diana Skouris in the US prime-time science fiction television series '' The 4400'' from Executive Producer
Francis Ford Coppola Francis Ford Coppola (; ; born April 7, 1939) is an American film director, producer, and screenwriter. He is considered one of the major figures of the New Hollywood filmmaking movement of the 1960s and 1970s. Coppola is the recipient of five A ...
, McKenzie was cast alongside Joel Gretsch ('' Taken'', ''
Minority Report Minority Report may refer to: * Minority report (Poor Law), published by the UK Royal Commission on the Poor Laws and Relief of Distress 1905–09 * "Minority Report", a 1949 science fiction short story by Theodore Sturgeon * "The Minority Report ...
'') – an onscreen partnership oft likened to Mulder and Scully. Directed by Yves Simoneau with show runner Ira Steven Behr (''
Star Trek: Deep Space Nine ''Star Trek: Deep Space Nine'' (abbreviated as ''DS9'') is an American science fiction television series created by Rick Berman and Michael Piller. The fourth series in the ''Star Trek'' media franchise, it originally aired in syndication from ...
''), ''The 4400'' was the highest-rated debut on US cable for 2004, earning a
Primetime Emmy Award The Primetime Emmy Awards, or Primetime Emmys, are part of the extensive range of Emmy Awards for artistic and technical merit for the American television industry. Bestowed by the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (ATAS), the Primetime ...
nomination for Best Mini-Series. The show ran on the USA Network for four seasons, ending in 2007. In 2006, McKenzie also starred as Linda Landry in "
Umney's Last Case ''Umney's Last Case'' is a short story by American author Stephen King, first published in King's collection ''Nightmares & Dreamscapes'' (1993). In July 1995, it was published as a separate paperback as part of Penguin's 60th anniversary. ''U ...
" opposite William H. Macy – the third episode of '' Nightmares and Dreamscapes'' on TNT. In 2008, McKenzie starred as psychiatrist Veronica Hayden-Jones in the 13-part series ''
Mental Mental may refer to: * of or relating to the mind Films * ''Mental'' (2012 film), an Australian comedy-drama * ''Mental'' (2016 film), a Bangladeshi romantic-action movie * ''Mental'', a 2008 documentary by Kazuhiro Soda * ''Mental'', a 2014 O ...
'' on the Fox Network, which was filmed at
Fox Telecolombia TIS S.A. (also known as The Independent Studios and formerly known as Fox Telecolombia and TeleColombia S.A.) is a major Colombian television production company in Spanish, founded in 1995 as the ''programadora'' Producciones Bernardo Romero ...
in
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, Colombia. Starring Annabella Sciorra, this was the first American television series to be filmed in Latin America for international markets. McKenzie guest starred in ''
Desperate Housewives ''Desperate Housewives'' is an American comedy-drama soap opera television series created by Marc Cherry and produced by ABC Studios and Marc Cherry, Cherry Productions. It aired for eight seasons on American Broadcasting Company, ABC from Octobe ...
'', '' Without a Trace'', '' CSI: Miami'', '' Hawaii 5-0'' and the Australian TV series ''
Rake Rake may refer to: * Rake (stock character), a man habituated to immoral conduct * Rake (theatre), the artificial slope of a theatre stage Science and technology * Rake receiver, a radio receiver * Rake (geology), the angle between a feature on a ...
''. She was cast as Emma Waddell in the Jeremy Sims–directed feature film ''
Beneath Hill 60 ''Beneath Hill 60'' is a 2010 Australian war film directed by Jeremy Sims (credited as Jeremy Hartley Sims) and written by David Roach. Set during World War I, the film tells the story of the 1st Australian Tunnelling Company's efforts in minin ...
'' and starred in the 2010 season finale of '' NCIS: Los Angeles'' alongside former ''Deep Blue Sea'' castmate
LL Cool J James Todd Smith (born January 14, 1968), known professionally as LL Cool J (short for Ladies Love Cool James), is an American rapper, songwriter, record producer, and actor. He is one of the earliest rappers to achieve commercial success, along ...
. In 2011, Cate Blanchett and Andrew Upton, the co-artistic directors of the Sydney Theatre Company, invited McKenzie to star in their production of Sarah Ruhl's '' In the Next Room (or The Vibrator Play)'' at the Sydney Opera House, Drama Theatre. Co-starring
Mandy McElhinney Mandy McElhinney (born ) is an Australian actress best known for playing Rhonda in AAMI insurance advertisements. She appeared on the sketch comedy television series, '' Comedy Inc.'', from 2003 to 2006. She appeared as Gina Rinehart in the te ...
, this production went on tour to Melbourne Theatre Company, Wollongong, Canberra and Parramatta Riverside Theatre, earning McKenzie a Best Actress nomination at the Green Room Awards for her role as Mrs Givings. This was McKenzie's first play since her critically acclaimed turn as Catherine in David Auburn's Pulitzer Prize–winning play ''Proof'', which sold out at the Sydney Opera House in 2003. In 2012, she accepted Cate Blanchett and Andrew Upton's invitation to star in the Australian premiere of the two-hander ''Sex With Strangers'' by American playwright Laura Eason ('' House of Cards'') for the Sydney Theatre Company. This critically acclaimed production co-starred
Ryan Corr Ryan Corr (born 15 January 1989) is an Australian actor. Corr is known for his roles in the Australian drama series ''Packed to the Rafters'' and '' Love Child'' along with film roles in ''Wolf Creek 2'' (2013), ''The Water Diviner'' (2014) and ' ...
and was directed by Jocelyn Moorhouse. An award-winning director of many films including '' How to Make an American Quilt'', this was Jocelyn's first play. In 2013, McKenzie starred in the seminal role of Margaret (a.k.a. Maggie) in ''
Cat on a Hot Tin Roof ''Cat on a Hot Tin Roof'' is a three-act play written by Tennessee Williams. An adaptation of his 1952 short story "Three Players of a Summer Game", the play was written by him between 1953 and 1955. One of Williams's more famous works and his p ...
'' by Tennessee Williams for Belvoir St., directed by Simon Stone, co-starring Ewen Leslie (as Brick) and Marshall Napier (as Big Daddy). A sell-out production with an extension season at the Theatre Royal, Sydney, McKenzie's performance, in the role that made
Elizabeth Taylor Dame Elizabeth Rosemond Taylor (February 27, 1932 – March 23, 2011) was a British-American actress. She began her career as a child actress in the early 1940s and was one of the most popular stars of classical Hollywood cinema in the 1950s. ...
famous, was highly acclaimed: "Jacqueline McKenzie has far more scope in this play than she had in the recent ''Sex with Strangers'' to display her mesmerizing and neurasthenic talents that are so reminiscent of the early Judy Davis. She squirms, hops, skips and flops through the drama with a manic intensity that is breathtaking to watch from the first scene when she works her way through about a dozen changes of clothing and many pairs of 'hot' shoes during her long and intense opening monologue" and "McKenzie has been playing some major roles in Sydney recently but here is a great one, finally worthy of her ability, and she rises to it magnificently. Her Maggie is full of feverish energy, and hard-won, hard-edged glamour that a woman who has clawed herself up out of poverty to become the wife of the descendant of a crass but very rich family might be expected to display. She is better than them. She is beautiful, her smile is always bright but brief glimpses of self-doubt betray her origins, and her eyes betray her desperation." "This is a good production, made great by McKenzie's beautiful performance." McKenzie returned to the Sydney Opera House in 2014 to play Liza in Andrew Upton's adaptation of the Gorky classic '' Children of the Sun'' for the Sydney Theatre Company. Co-starring with Justine Clarke and Toby Truslove, under the direction of Kip Williams, the production was immensely successful, garnering McKenzie a nomination for Best Actress at the 2014 Sydney Theatre Awards. In 2014, McKenzie reunited with her ''Romper Stomper'' co-star, Russell Crowe, to perform in his feature-film-directing debut, '' The Water Diviner'', in which he also stars. With a handpicked cast that included Yılmaz Erdoğan, Olga Kurylenko,
Ryan Corr Ryan Corr (born 15 January 1989) is an Australian actor. Corr is known for his roles in the Australian drama series ''Packed to the Rafters'' and '' Love Child'' along with film roles in ''Wolf Creek 2'' (2013), ''The Water Diviner'' (2014) and ' ...
, Jai Courtney, Steve Bastoni and Cem Yılmaz, ''The Water Diviner'' was nominated for eight
AACTA The Australian Academy of Cinema and Television Arts (AACTA) is a professional organisation of film and television practitioners in Australia. The Academy's aim is "to identify, award, promote, and celebrate Australia's greatest achievements i ...
awards including Best Supporting Actress in a feature film for McKenzie, who played the role of Russell's grieving wife Lizzie. For this performance, McKenzie won Best Supporting Actress at the 2014 Film Critics Circle of Australia Awards. Films to be released: ''Force of Destiny'', written and directed by Paul Cox and starring David Wenham and Shahana Goswami. This will premiere at the
Melbourne International Film Festival The Melbourne International Film Festival (MIFF) is an annual film festival held over three weeks in Melbourne, Australia. It was founded in 1952 and is one of the oldest film festivals in the world following the founding of the Venice Film Fest ...
; '' Fell'', written and directed by Kasimir Burgess and starring Matt Nable and Daniel Henshall. In 2015, McKenzie starred alongside Richard Roxburgh and Cate Blanchett in the Sydney Theatre Company production of ''
The Present The present (or here'' and ''now) is the time that is associated with the events perceived directly and in the first time, not as a recollection (perceived more than once) or a speculation (predicted, hypothesis, uncertain). It is a period of ...
'', by
Anton Chekhov Anton Pavlovich Chekhov (; 29 January 1860 Old Style date 17 January. – 15 July 1904 Old Style date 2 July.) was a Russian playwright and short-story writer who is considered to be one of the greatest writers of all time. His career ...
. Adapted by Andrew Upton, this production was directed by
John Crowley John Crowley may refer to: *John Crowley (Irish revolutionary) (1891-1942), Irish revolutionary and hunger striker *John Crowley (author) (born 1942), American author *John Crowley (baseball) (1862–1896), American Major League catcher *John Crowl ...
. That production moved in 2016/17 to the Ethel Barrymore Theatre in Manhattan for the Broadway debut of McKenzie and the rest of the cast. She also starred as Orlando in the Sarah Ruhl play '' Orlando'', based on
the novel ''The Novel'' (1991) is a novel written by American author James A. Michener. A departure from Michener's better known historical fiction, ''The Novel'' is told from the viewpoints of four different characters involved in the life and work of ...
by Virginia Woolf (made famous by the
1992 film Year 199 ( CXCIX) was a common year starting on Monday (link will display the full calendar) of the Julian calendar. At the time, it was sometimes known as year 952 ''Ab urbe condita''. The denomination 199 for this year has been used since the ...
directed by Sally Potter and starring Tilda Swinton). Directed by Sarah Goodes, ''Orlando'' ran at the Sydney Opera House for the Sydney Theatre Company. McKenzie was nominated for Best Actress in ''Orlando'' and Best Supporting Actress in ''The Present'' at the 2015 Sydney Theatre Awards.


2016 to present

In 2016, McKenzie reunited with her former ''Stark!'' co-star Ben Elton for his romantic comedy ''
Three Summers ''Three Summers'' is an Australian romantic comedy film, written and directed by Ben Elton. It was filmed and is set in Western Australia, at a fictional summer music festival called 'Westival' (based on the real-life Fairbridge Festival). Over ...
'' filming in Perth. The ensemble also featured Robert Sheean, Magda Szubanski, Michael Caton and
Rebecca Breeds Rebecca Elizabeth Breeds (born 17 June 1987) is an Australian actress, known for her roles as Cassie Cometti in the third series of ''Blue Water High'', as series regular Ruby Buckton in the soap opera ''Home and Away,'' Aurora de Martel in '' ...
. In August 2016 McKenzie filmed the independent movie ''Harmony'' in Wollongong and Sydney, Australia. McKenzie starred as Jane Chandler in Australian feature film '' The Gateway'' in October 2016. Written by Michael White and directed by John Soto, the sci-fi film also starred Myles Pollard and Ben Mortley. The film follows the journey of a
particle physicist Particle physics or high energy physics is the study of Elementary particle, fundamental particles and fundamental interaction, forces that constitute matter and radiation. The fundamental particles in the universe are classified in the Standa ...
who, grieving over the loss of her husband in a car crash, uses a revolutionary machine to bring him back with dire consequences for her family. In May 2017, SBS announced that McKenzie had been cast in their new four-part drama '' Safe Harbour'' about a group of Australians who come across a boat of refugees whilst sailing on vacation. The mini-series, produced by Matchbox Pictures, also stars Phoebe Tonkin, Ewen Leslie and
Joel Jackson Joel Jackson is an Australian actor and musician. He came to prominence for his performances as Charles Bean in ''Deadline Gallipoli'' and Peter Allen in '' Peter Allen: Not the Boy Next Door''. For both roles he was nominated for the 2015 A ...
. In June 2017 McKenzie began filming Luke Sparke's movie '' Occupation'' with
Charles Mesure Charles William David Mesure (born 12 August 1970) is an English Australian actor known for his work in Australia, New Zealand and the United States of America. Birth and education Mesure was born in Somerset, England. When he was five, his fami ...
, Temuera Morrison and
Dan Ewing Daniel M. Ewing (born 3 June 1985), is an Australian actor. He appeared on Seven Network's ''Home and Away'' series as Reuben Humphries during 2007. In 2011, he returned to the Australian soap, this time receiving a larger role, playing Heath ...
about a group of town residents banding together after a devastating ground invasion. In August 2017, McKenzie started shooting the TV series '' Romper Stomper'', a follow-up to the 1992 cult classic movie in which she starred with Russell Crowe. The series, conceived and directed by Geoffrey Wright (creator of the original film) and produced by John Edwards, premiered on Australian streaming platform
Stan Stan or STAN may refer to: People * Stan (given name), a list of people with the given name ** Stan Laurel (1890–1965), English comic actor, part of duo Laurel and Hardy * Stan (surname), a Romanian surname * Stan! (born 1964), American author ...
on New Years Day 2018, breaking all records for original content. The series was aired in the United Kingdom on the BBC later in 2018. For her role in the series McKenzie was awarded a Logie for Most Outstanding Supporting Actress at the Logie Awards of 2018. At the CinefestOZ awards in August 2017, McKenzie was honoured with the Screen Legend Award, recognising her contribution and excellence in the film industry. Starred alongside Sam Neill, Greta Scacchi and Bryan Brown in the movie ''Palm Beach (2019)'' . This was directed by Rachel Ward. Reunited with friends from drama school, Essie Davis and
Daniel Lapaine Daniel Lapaine (born 15 June 1971) is an Australian stage, film and television actor, currently residing in London. He also works as a writer and director. Career Born in Sydney, New South Wales to an Italian father and an Australian mother ...
, on the hit film '' Miss Fisher and the Crypt of Tears'' (a spinoff of the series Miss Fisher Murder Mysteries) 2019 saw Jacqueline return to the Sydney Theatre Company to play Alice in Lucy Kirkwood's ''Mosquitoes'' (play) at the
Sydney Opera House The Sydney Opera House is a multi-venue performing arts centre in Sydney. Located on the foreshore of Sydney Harbour, it is widely regarded as one of the world's most famous and distinctive buildings and a masterpiece of 20th-century architec ...
. In 2020, she starred in series 2 of the
Stan Stan or STAN may refer to: People * Stan (given name), a list of people with the given name ** Stan Laurel (1890–1965), English comic actor, part of duo Laurel and Hardy * Stan (surname), a Romanian surname * Stan! (born 1964), American author ...
original series ''Bloom'' alongside
Jackie Weaver Handforth Town Council is the parish council for the civil parish of Handforth in Cheshire, England. Previously known as Handforth Parish Council, it was renamed Handforth Town Council on 31 July 2021. History First iteration Following the Lo ...
and Bryan Brown. She also reprised her award-winning role "Sharon Sinclair", from the series ''
Halifax f.p. ''Halifax f.p.'' is an Australian television crime series produced by Nine Network from 1994 to 2002. The series stars Rebecca Gibney as Doctor Jane Halifax, a forensic psychiatrist investigating cases involving the mental state of suspects or ...
,'' in the reboot Halifax: Retribution . In 2021, McKenzie appeared with
Annabelle Wallis Annabelle Wallis (born 5 September 1984) is an English actress. She is known for her roles as Jane Seymour in Showtime's period drama ''The Tudors'' (2009–2010), Grace Burgess in the BBC drama ''Peaky Blinders'' (2013–2022), Mia Form in th ...
in James Wan's horror film '' Malignant'', and starred alongside Jane Seymour in Australia feature film ''
Ruby's Choice ''Ruby's Choice'' is a 2022 Australian drama directed by Michael Budd and produced by Michael Budd and Jessica Butland, and Holly Brisley. It stars Jane Seymour, Jacqueline McKenzie, Stephen Hunter and Coco Jack Gillies. Written by Paul Mahoney, ...
''.


Music

McKenzie's hobbies include composing and recording music. Past collaborators include Vic Levak ( Balligomingo) who co-wrote "Shy Baby" and Jim Hayden ( Electrasy). When her ''4400'' co-star Joel Gretsch heard her song "Shy Baby", he took it to the producers of the show and as a result, it was used in the second-season finale " Mommy's Bosses" of '' The 4400''. "Shy Baby" went on to be included in ''The 4400'' soundtrack CD, released in April 2007.


Art and painting

An avid painter (since working with Aaron Blabey on the Paul Cox film ''The Human Touch''), McKenzie's paintings have appeared in several publications, including ''Venice Magazine'' and ''
OK! ''OK!'' is a British weekly magazine that primarily specialises in royal and celebrity news. Originally launched as a monthly magazine, its first issue was published in April 1997. In September 2004, ''OK''! launched in Australia as a monthly ...
''. In the Fox TV series ''
Mental Mental may refer to: * of or relating to the mind Films * ''Mental'' (2012 film), an Australian comedy-drama * ''Mental'' (2016 film), a Bangladeshi romantic-action movie * ''Mental'', a 2008 documentary by Kazuhiro Soda * ''Mental'', a 2014 O ...
'', her paintings became set dressing, adorning the walls of her character's office in the final episodes of the show.


Personal life

In 1996, a portrait of McKenzie by Australian narrative painter Garry Shead was a finalist in the Archibald Prize and the Doug Moran National Portrait Prize. She is a former partner of actor Simon McBurney. She has a daughter Roxanne McKenzie who is 15.


Filmography


Film


Television


Self appearances / interviews


Theatre

''
Oliver! ''Oliver!'' is a coming-of-age stage musical, with book, music and lyrics by Lionel Bart. The musical is based upon the 1838 novel '' Oliver Twist'' by Charles Dickens. It premiered at the Wimbledon Theatre, southwest London in 1960 before op ...
'' as Nancy, school production *1991: ''Child Dancing'' as Julie-Ann, Griffin Theatre Company, dir. Michael GowJacqueline McKenzie
AusStage.com
*1991: '' Twelfth Night'' as Viola, dir. George Ogilvie, Q Theatre Penrith *1991: '' The Master Builder'' as Kaja Fosli, Belvoir, dir.
Neil Armfield Neil Geoffrey Armfield (born 22 April 1955) is an Australian director of theatre, film and opera. Biography Born in Sydney, Armfield is the third and youngest son of Len, a factory worker at the nearby Arnott's Biscuits factory and Nita Armf ...
*1991: ''
Rebecca Rebecca, ; Syriac: , ) from the Hebrew (lit., 'connection'), from Semitic root , 'to tie, couple or join', 'to secure', or 'to snare') () appears in the Hebrew Bible as the wife of Isaac and the mother of Jacob and Esau. According to biblical ...
'' as Mrs de Winter, Marian Street Theatre, dir. George Ogilvie *1992: '' The Barber of Seville'' as Rosine, Marian Street Theatre, dir. Peter Kingston *1992: '' Vassa'' ( Maxim Gorky) (as Natalia, NIDA, dir. John Clarke *1994: '' Hamlet'' as Ophelia, Company B (Sydney) and Playhouse (Melbourne), dir.
Neil Armfield Neil Geoffrey Armfield (born 22 April 1955) is an Australian director of theatre, film and opera. Biography Born in Sydney, Armfield is the third and youngest son of Len, a factory worker at the nearby Arnott's Biscuits factory and Nita Armf ...
, with Geoffrey Rush, David Wenham, Richard Roxburgh,
Gillian Jones Gillian Jones (born 19 April 1947) is an Australian actress from Newcastle, New South Wales who is best known for appearances in ''Twelfth Night'', ''Oscar and Lucinda'', ''Last Train to Freo'' and the role of Di Paige in the television series ...
"Jacqueline McKenzie puts her feline heart into Cat on a Hot Tin Roof"
by Sharon Verghis, '' The Australian'', 9 February 2013
*1995: '' Saint Joan'' as Joan,
Sydney Theatre Company Sydney Theatre Company (STC) is an Australian theatre company based in Sydney, New South Wales. The company performs in The Wharf Theatre at Dawes Point in The Rocks area of Sydney, as well as the Roslyn Packer Theatre (formerly Sydney Thea ...
,
Sydney Opera House The Sydney Opera House is a multi-venue performing arts centre in Sydney. Located on the foreshore of Sydney Harbour, it is widely regarded as one of the world's most famous and distinctive buildings and a masterpiece of 20th-century architec ...
dir. Gale Edwards *1997: ''The Governor's Family'' as Lara Mountgarrett, Belvoir, dir.
Neil Armfield Neil Geoffrey Armfield (born 22 April 1955) is an Australian director of theatre, film and opera. Biography Born in Sydney, Armfield is the third and youngest son of Len, a factory worker at the nearby Arnott's Biscuits factory and Nita Armf ...
*2000: ''
The White Devil ''The White Devil'' (full original title: ''The White Divel; or, The Tragedy of Paulo Giordano Ursini, Duke of Brachiano. With The Life and Death of Vittoria Corombona the famous Venetian Curtizan'') is a tragedy by English playwright John We ...
'' as Isabella, Sydney Theatre Company and
Brooklyn Academy of Music The Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM) is a performing arts venue in Brooklyn, New York City, known as a center for progressive and avant-garde performance. It presented its first performance in 1861 and began operations in its present location in ...
(2001), dir. Gale Edwards, with Angie Milliken, Marcus Graham, Jeremy Sims,
Julia Blake Julia Blake (born 1936) is an English–born Australian actress. She is known for her small screen role as Nancy McCormack on the Australian drama series ''Prisoner'' (''Prisoner: Cell Block H''), for which she appeared during the final season ...
, Bruce Spence, Hugo Weaving, Philip Quast,
Paula Arundell Paula Arundell is an Australian actress and singer. Early life Arundell studied at the National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA), in Sydney. She graduated in 1995, with a degree in Performing Arts (Acting). Career Arundell has appeared on tel ...
*2001: '' Educating Rita'' as Rita, Williamstown Theatre Festival, dir. Bruce Paltrow, with Edward Herrmann *2002:'' The Resistible Rise of Arturo Ui'' as Dock Daisy, Schimmel Center (New York), Complicite, dir. Simon McBurney, with
Al Pacino Alfredo James Pacino (; ; born April 25, 1940) is an American actor. Considered one of the most influential actors of the 20th century, he has received numerous accolades: including an Academy Award, two Tony Awards, and two Primetime Emmy ...
,
Steve Buscemi Steven Vincent Buscemi ( ,As stated in interviews by Buscemi himself, some may insist that his pronunciation of his own name is "wrong" because it does not match the original Italian pronunciation as well. It is not uncommon for people to pronou ...
, John Goodman, Billy Crudup Paul Giamatti, Tony Randall, Charles Durning, Linda Emond,
Chazz Palminteri Calogero Lorenzo "Chazz" Palminteri (born May 15, 1952)
Chazzpalminteri.net. Retrieved on November 19, 2013.
is an American ...
, Dominic Chianese, Lothaire Bluteau *2003: ''
Proof Proof most often refers to: * Proof (truth), argument or sufficient evidence for the truth of a proposition * Alcohol proof, a measure of an alcoholic drink's strength Proof may also refer to: Mathematics and formal logic * Formal proof, a con ...
'' as Catherine, by
David Auburn David Auburn (born 30 November 1969) is an American playwright, screenwriter and theatre director. He is best known for his 2000 play '' Proof'', which won the 2001 Tony Award for Best Play and Pulitzer Prize for Drama. He also wrote the screen ...
,
Sydney Opera House The Sydney Opera House is a multi-venue performing arts centre in Sydney. Located on the foreshore of Sydney Harbour, it is widely regarded as one of the world's most famous and distinctive buildings and a masterpiece of 20th-century architec ...
dir. George Ogilvie, with Barry Otto *2011: '' In the Next Room (or The Vibrator Play)'' by Sarah Ruhl, as Catherine Givings,
Sydney Opera House The Sydney Opera House is a multi-venue performing arts centre in Sydney. Located on the foreshore of Sydney Harbour, it is widely regarded as one of the world's most famous and distinctive buildings and a masterpiece of 20th-century architec ...
and Melbourne Theatre Company, dir. Pamela Rabe *2012: ''Sex With Strangers'' as Olivia, by Laura Eason,
Sydney Theatre Company Sydney Theatre Company (STC) is an Australian theatre company based in Sydney, New South Wales. The company performs in The Wharf Theatre at Dawes Point in The Rocks area of Sydney, as well as the Roslyn Packer Theatre (formerly Sydney Thea ...
, dir. Jocelyn Moorhouse *2013: ''
Cat on a Hot Tin Roof ''Cat on a Hot Tin Roof'' is a three-act play written by Tennessee Williams. An adaptation of his 1952 short story "Three Players of a Summer Game", the play was written by him between 1953 and 1955. One of Williams's more famous works and his p ...
'' as Maggie by Tennessee Williams, Belvoir, dir. Simon Stone *2014: '' Children of the Sun'' by Maxim Gorky as Liza, dir: Kip Williams adapted by Andrew Upton,
Sydney Theatre Company Sydney Theatre Company (STC) is an Australian theatre company based in Sydney, New South Wales. The company performs in The Wharf Theatre at Dawes Point in The Rocks area of Sydney, as well as the Roslyn Packer Theatre (formerly Sydney Thea ...
,
Sydney Opera House The Sydney Opera House is a multi-venue performing arts centre in Sydney. Located on the foreshore of Sydney Harbour, it is widely regarded as one of the world's most famous and distinctive buildings and a masterpiece of 20th-century architec ...
*2015: ''
The Present The present (or here'' and ''now) is the time that is associated with the events perceived directly and in the first time, not as a recollection (perceived more than once) or a speculation (predicted, hypothesis, uncertain). It is a period of ...
'' by
Anton Chekhov Anton Pavlovich Chekhov (; 29 January 1860 Old Style date 17 January. – 15 July 1904 Old Style date 2 July.) was a Russian playwright and short-story writer who is considered to be one of the greatest writers of all time. His career ...
as Sophia, adapted by Andrew Upton,
Sydney Theatre Company Sydney Theatre Company (STC) is an Australian theatre company based in Sydney, New South Wales. The company performs in The Wharf Theatre at Dawes Point in The Rocks area of Sydney, as well as the Roslyn Packer Theatre (formerly Sydney Thea ...
dir.
John Crowley John Crowley may refer to: *John Crowley (Irish revolutionary) (1891-1942), Irish revolutionary and hunger striker *John Crowley (author) (born 1942), American author *John Crowley (baseball) (1862–1896), American Major League catcher *John Crowl ...
; at the
Sydney Theatre The Roslyn Packer Theatre Walsh Bay is a theatre in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. The theatre is on Hickson Road at Walsh Bay, west of The Wharf Theatre, opposite Pier 6/7 on Walsh Bay. It seats up to 896 people. Originally named as the Syd ...
*2015: '' Orlando'' as Orlando, adapted from Virginia Woolf's '' Orlando: A Biography'' by Sarah Ruhl,
Sydney Theatre Company Sydney Theatre Company (STC) is an Australian theatre company based in Sydney, New South Wales. The company performs in The Wharf Theatre at Dawes Point in The Rocks area of Sydney, as well as the Roslyn Packer Theatre (formerly Sydney Thea ...
, at the
Sydney Opera House The Sydney Opera House is a multi-venue performing arts centre in Sydney. Located on the foreshore of Sydney Harbour, it is widely regarded as one of the world's most famous and distinctive buildings and a masterpiece of 20th-century architec ...
*2016: ''
The Present The present (or here'' and ''now) is the time that is associated with the events perceived directly and in the first time, not as a recollection (perceived more than once) or a speculation (predicted, hypothesis, uncertain). It is a period of ...
'' by
Anton Chekhov Anton Pavlovich Chekhov (; 29 January 1860 Old Style date 17 January. – 15 July 1904 Old Style date 2 July.) was a Russian playwright and short-story writer who is considered to be one of the greatest writers of all time. His career ...
as Sophia, adapted by Andrew Upton,
Sydney Theatre Company Sydney Theatre Company (STC) is an Australian theatre company based in Sydney, New South Wales. The company performs in The Wharf Theatre at Dawes Point in The Rocks area of Sydney, as well as the Roslyn Packer Theatre (formerly Sydney Thea ...
dir.
John Crowley John Crowley may refer to: *John Crowley (Irish revolutionary) (1891-1942), Irish revolutionary and hunger striker *John Crowley (author) (born 1942), American author *John Crowley (baseball) (1862–1896), American Major League catcher *John Crowl ...
for Broadway run at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre in Manhattan *2019: ''Mosquitoes'' by Lucy Kirkwood as Alice. Dir: Jessica Arthur for
Sydney Theatre Company Sydney Theatre Company (STC) is an Australian theatre company based in Sydney, New South Wales. The company performs in The Wharf Theatre at Dawes Point in The Rocks area of Sydney, as well as the Roslyn Packer Theatre (formerly Sydney Thea ...
at the
Sydney Opera House The Sydney Opera House is a multi-venue performing arts centre in Sydney. Located on the foreshore of Sydney Harbour, it is widely regarded as one of the world's most famous and distinctive buildings and a masterpiece of 20th-century architec ...


Awards and nominations


References


External links

* *
Profile
by Veronica Hayden-Jones, Global BC, 21 May 2009
STC Profile
at the
Sydney Theatre Company Sydney Theatre Company (STC) is an Australian theatre company based in Sydney, New South Wales. The company performs in The Wharf Theatre at Dawes Point in The Rocks area of Sydney, as well as the Roslyn Packer Theatre (formerly Sydney Thea ...
September 2014
"10 Questions: Jacqueline McKenzie, actress, 46"
by Michael Bodey, '' The Australian'', 6 September 2014
"''Children of the Sun'' review: Female stars set Kip Williams' stage alight"
by Jason Blake, '' The Sydney Morning Herald'', September 2014
"IGN interview: ''The 4400''s Jacqueline McKenzie"
by Eric Goldman, IGN, 24 August 2006
"Can ''4400''s Diana See the Future?"
by Matt Webb Mitovich, '' TV Guide'', 2 June 2006
"On Duty"
''The Daily Telegraph'' (Sydney), 11 June 2011
"''Proof''"
review, '' The Sydney Morning Herald'', 16 June 2003
"Hot blush"
by Catherine Keenan, '' The Sydney Morning Herald'', 14 June 2003
"Entertain us: Jacqueline McKenzie"
interview by Nathan Olivieri, '' The Sydney Morning Herald'', 17 February 2013
Russell Crowe casting his directorial debut

''The Water Diviner'' with stills shot
{{DEFAULTSORT:McKenzie, Jacqueline 1967 births 20th-century Australian actresses 21st-century Australian actresses Actresses from Sydney Australian expatriate actresses in the United States Australian film actresses Australian people of English descent Australian people of Irish descent Australian people of Scottish descent Australian Shakespearean actresses Australian television actresses Best Actress AACTA Award winners Living people Logie Award winners National Institute of Dramatic Art alumni People educated at Pymble Ladies' College