Henri Szeps

Henri Szeps, a Swiss-born actor, emerged from a tumultuous early life. He was born in Lausanne, Switzerland, but the onset of World War II forced his family to flee to France to escape the German invasion of Poland. His father joined the French Resistance, leaving Henri, his mother, and his young sister to navigate the challenges of war. After a stint in a refugee camp, where Henri entered the world, the family relocated to Australia when he was just eight years old.

Szeps gained widespread recognition for his portrayal of the self-absorbed dentist Robert Beare in the beloved Australian television sitcom *Mother and Son*, which aired from 1984 to 1994. Sharing the screen with notable actors like Garry McDonald, Ruth Cracknell, and Judy Morris, his performance left a lasting impression on audiences. In addition to this iconic role, he garnered acclaim for his work in *Palace of Dreams*, for which he was honored with a Penguin Award.

His theatrical talent shone through when he played the Doctor in the world premiere of David Williamson's acclaimed play *Travelling North*. This role was so well-received that he reprised it in the 1987 film adaptation alongside esteemed actors Leo McKern and Graham Kennedy. Throughout his career, Szeps has made significant contributions to Australian entertainment, becoming a cherished figure in the industry.