Story perspectives

Former ‘Mad Max 2’ Star Kjell Nilsson Dies at 76

7/3/2026

Summary

Kjell Nilsson Dies

Kjell Nilsson died peacefully in his sleep on July 2 in Queensland, Australia.
He was 76 and had endured end-stage kidney disease for four and a half years.
In early July he stopped dialysis three times weekly to regain control over his pain.
Nilsson, a former Olympic weightlifter, moved to Australia in 1980 and is best known for playing Lord Humungus in Mad Max 2 (1981).

Summary

Nilsson Remembered

The Cauliflower Alley Club praised Nilsson's inspiring presence in wrestling.
Fans remembered Nilsson as an iconic villain with magnetic screen presence and kindness.
Many plan to re-watch Mad Max 2 on the anniversary of his death.
Nilsson's latest screen role was in the 2023 film Howlin’ Refrain.

Summary

Nilsson Praised

Time magazine critic Richard Corliss praised Nilsson’s Lord Humungus performance for channeling malevolent intensity through his massive frame and scarred scalp.
Born December 19 1949 in Gothenburg, Sweden, Nilsson was an Olympic-class weightlifter who moved to Australia in 1980, met and married actress Kate Ferguson, and credited her encouragement for his shift to acting.
He appeared in the 1982 musical comedy The Pirate Movie with Christopher Atkins and Kristy McNichol.

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Kjell Nilsson Dies

Kjell Nilsson died peacefully in his sleep on July 2 in Queensland, Australia.
He was 76 and had endured end-stage kidney disease for four and a half years.
In early July he stopped dialysis three times weekly to regain control over his pain.
Nilsson, a former Olympic weightlifter, moved to Australia in 1980 and is best known for playing Lord Humungus in Mad Max 2 (1981).

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