Cartoonist Bill Leak dies from suspected heart attack, friend says scrutiny led to his death

Controversial cartoonist Bill Leak has died from a suspected heart attack.

The 61-year-old won nine Walkley awards and 19 Stanley awards.

He was recently investigated for breaching Section 18C of the Racial Discrimination Act after he drew a cartoon of an indigenous man, his son and a policeman. 

Spectator magazine editor and friend, Rowan Dean, said that scrutiny led to Bill’s death.

‘This is a man who worked so hard, caring for people, and somebody who was genuinely concerned about our country,’ he said.

‘He was determined to see the right thing done by the right people.

‘He’s been hounded to his grave.’

The cartoon in question.