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Rachel Ward

Rachel Claire Ward AM is a British-Australian actress, director, writer, and former model.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Rachel Claire Ward AM is a British-Australian actress, director, writer, and former model. She is best known for playing Meggie Cleary in the television miniseries The Thorn Birds (1983), which brought her major international recognition. She later shifted much of her career toward directing and screenwriting, mainly in Australia.

Early life and modelling

Ward was born on 12 September 1957 in Cornwell Manor, Cornwell, Chipping Norton, Oxfordshire, England. She began her career as a model before moving into acting.

Acting career

She gained wide recognition for her role as Meggie Cleary in The Thorn Birds, a performance that earned her Golden Globe Award nominations. She also appeared in films such as Sharky's Machine and Against All Odds.

Directing and writing

Ward later developed a second career as a director and screenwriter. She focused much of this work in Australia and directed acclaimed projects including Beautiful Kate.

Personal life and honours

Ward married Australian actor Bryan Brown in 1983, and they have three children. She was awarded membership in the Order of Australia, reflecting her contributions to the arts.

Key facts

  • Rachel Ward is a British-Australian actress, director, writer, and former model.
  • She is best known for playing Meggie Cleary in the 1983 miniseries The Thorn Birds.
  • Her performance in The Thorn Birds earned her Golden Globe Award nominations.
  • She later shifted her career toward directing and screenwriting, mainly in Australia.
  • She married Australian actor Bryan Brown in 1983 and was made a Member of the Order of Australia.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Rachel Ward?
She is a British-Australian actress, director, writer, and former model best known for The Thorn Birds.
What is Rachel Ward best known for?
She is best known for playing Meggie Cleary in the 1983 miniseries The Thorn Birds.
When was Rachel Ward born?
She was born on 12 September 1957.
Who is Rachel Ward married to?
She has been married to Australian actor Bryan Brown since 16 April 1983.
Did Rachel Ward work outside acting?
Yes. She later worked as a director and writer, mainly in Australia.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rachel_Ward
    Supports: Birth date, nationality, best-known role, and Golden Globe nomination context.
  2. IMDb — https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0001829/
    Supports: Birthplace, acting credits, marriage to Bryan Brown, and children.
  3. University of Technology Sydney — https://www.uts.edu.au/for-students/experience-uts/alumni/rachel-ward
    Supports: Career transition to directing and writing, Australian career focus, and arts advocacy.
  4. The Movie Database — https://www.themoviedb.org/person/36042-rachel-ward?language=en-US
    Supports: Occupation, date of birth, birthplace, and role as actress/director/screenwriter/former model.
  5. Rotten Tomatoes — https://www.rottentomatoes.com/celebrity/rachel_ward
    Supports: Recognition for The Thorn Birds and later move into filmmaking.