Mark Brandon Read
| Mark Brandon "Chopper" Read | ||
 | ||
| Mark Brandon Read | ||
| Born | Born November 17, 1954 Melbourne, Victoria, Australia | |
| Died | Died October 9, 2013 (aged 58) Melbourne, Victoria, Australia | |
| nationality | Australian | |
| Occupation(s) | Author, Criminal | |
| spouse | Mary-Ann Hodge (divorced) | |
| children | Charlie Read | |
| Known for | Criminal exploits, autobiographies | |
Mark Brandon "Chopper" Read (17 November 1954 – 9 October 2013) was an Australian criminal, author, and media personality. Notorious for his violent criminal history and involvement in the Melbourne underworld, Read became a cultural icon through his autobiographical books and film adaptations of his life.
Early Life
Mark Read was born in Melbourne, Victoria, into a complex family dynamic. His father was a war veteran who struggled with post-traumatic stress disorder, while his mother was a devout Seventh-day Adventist. Read had a troubled childhood, marked by institutionalization in an orphanage and exposure to violence. As a teenager, he exhibited a fascination with firearms and military tactics.
Criminal Career
Read spent much of his life embroiled in criminal activities, including armed robbery, assault, and standover tactics. He became infamous for targeting drug dealers, claiming that his victims were those who could not seek police protection. Despite his violent past, he painted himself as a vigilante figure who did not harm innocent people.
In the late 1970s, Read was embroiled in a high-profile case involving H-Division, a notorious section of the Australian prison system. He was accused of carrying out violent acts within prison, including a stabbing incident.
Writing Career
While incarcerated, Read began writing about his life and criminal exploits. His raw, often humorous accounts captivated readers, and his first book, Chopper From the Inside, became a bestseller. Over the years, his books sold hundreds of thousands of copies, cementing his place as an unlikely literary figure. His work inspired the 2000 film Chopper, starring Eric Bana, which gained critical acclaim.
Later Life and Media Presence
After his release from prison in the 1990s, Read attempted to live a quieter life but remained a controversial public figure. He made numerous television appearances and capitalized on his notoriety by selling memorabilia. Read's sharp wit and candid personality made him a media favorite, though his critics often accused him of glorifying crime.
In his final years, Read struggled with health issues, including liver cancer. He passed away on 9 October 2013 in Melbourne.
Legacy
Read's life continues to be a subject of fascination in Australian culture. He remains a polarizing figure, celebrated by some for his storytelling and condemned by others for his violent past. His books and the film Chopper contribute to his enduring legacy.[1]
References
- Tough 101 Australian Gangsters, By John Silvester, 2002, P.221-232.
See also
• Chopper (2000 film)
• Melbourne underworld
• Crime in Australia
