Bryan Brown hated English as a kid. One book changed everything

Bryan Brown Hated English as a Kid. One Book Changed Everything

When growing up in Sydney, literature meant little to Bryan Brown. Yet, years later, a long flight would spark his love for storytelling and redefine his career path.

From Reluctant Reader to Celebrated Actor

In person, Brown is just as many imagine him: rugged, charismatic, and unfiltered in his speech. At 78, he remains unmistakable, having starred in countless classics from television and film — from The Thorn Birds and Breaker Morant to major Hollywood productions like Cocktail with Tom Cruise and Gorillas In The Mist with Sigourney Weaver.

Turning to Writing

Today, Brown stands out not only as a screen icon but as a bestselling crime writer. He released his first short story collection, Sweet Jimmy, in 2021, followed by his debut novel The Drowning in 2023. This month, his third book, The Hidden, hits the shelves — an impressive achievement for someone who once disliked reading.

The Early Struggles with English

“I hated English at school,” he says. “Because we got things like Great Expectations to read...”

Though he now admits Dickens’ classic is indeed a masterpiece, Brown laughs at the thought that it meant little to a sport-loving teenager.

A Lunch Meeting in Melbourne

We meet over lunch in Fitzroy. Brown, who lives in Sydney with his wife, actor-director Rachel Ward, is in Melbourne for a podcast appearance.

“I’ve never listened to a podcast, ever,” he admits.

Author’s Summary

Bryan Brown, once dismissive of English class, evolved into a celebrated actor and award-winning crime writer whose passion for storytelling began unexpectedly.

The Age — 2025-11-07