Vale Susie Maizels ~ icon of the Australian Casting industry + pioneer of Australian women in film
By David Newman, CGA President
It is with great sadness we farewell our friend, colleague and an icon of the Australian Casting industry, Susie Maizels.
Long before the Me Too era, in the late 70’s and early 1980’s there was a group of trailblazing, fiercely intelligent, strong, passionate, dedicated and determined women who established the Australian Casting Industry and would become some of the first female heads of departments in our film and TV industry – Susie Maizels was one of the leaders of that group of pioneers of Australian women in film.
In 1983, Susie cast a young actress with a lot of promise in a film called BMX Bandits – it would help launch Nicole Kidman on an incredible career trajectory. Always passionate about finding and nurturing Australian actors, Susie went on to cast some of Australia’s most iconic film and TV productions including films Lantana, Jinabyne, Oyster Farm and Bliss. TV productions included Poor Man’s Orange, The Harp in the South, The Potato Factory and Always Greener.
Today, we celebrate Susie’s life and her legacy, and thank her for her passion, laughter, strength and her contribution to Australian film and TV screens.
7 Comments
A wonderful woman and brilliant casting director. Very sad news and sending love to her family. Toni Higginbotham and Team.
Sad to see a good woman depart this world. Good to have known you, may you rest in peace.
Oh Susie, So sad to see you go. One of the best and the most thoughtful and supportive people we know.
What a life and what a game.
Will miss you and your fun, your wit, your brilliance.
Rest in peace please, we will remember you.
Much love – Bill & Tonia.
RIP Susie. As a young, ambitious actor she was always so generous with her time and willingness to mentor. We shared a number of enjoyable coffees together and she was always fully engaged and interested in who you were as a person. Thank you, Susie. You were one of kind and will be missed by so many.
Rest Susie and bless you🌸
Susie was marvellous. A great loss to the industry.
A beautiful soul. Supportive and genuine to all. As an actor I always felt seen and encouraged.
Rest In Peace beautiful lady. Hugs Dominic