Actor T. E. Lewis dies aged 59

Mr Lewis' family have given NITV News permission to use his name and image.

T. E. Lewis taking on King Lear at the Malthouse Theatre performance of The Shadow King in Melbourne. Source: MALTHOUSE THEATRE

Northern Territory Indigenous musician and actor T. E. Lewis has died at the age of 59, his family has confirmed to NITV News in a statement.

The family said the actor, best known as the star of The Chant of Jimmie Blacksmith, passed away on Thursday night.

He led an "extraordinary public life" and "He will be greatly missed," they said.

"It is with tremendous sadness that we confirm the sudden passing of T. E. Lewis late last night at his home in Katherine, Northern Territory."

Tom E Lewis in the film Finding Maawirrangga. Source: Dylan McDonald

Mr Lewis will be forever remembered for his compelling and enduring work on stage and screen over 40 years, as a renowned musician, and as the driving force and vision behind Djilpin Arts with his partner and his extended family of Beswick and Arnhem Land communities."

"The family of Mr Lewis ask for privacy during this time. However, in recognition of his extraordinary public life, they have agreed to the use of his image and voice."