Rachel Ward: From Hollywood Star to Regenerative Farmer
TORONTO, January 16, 2026 – Rachel Ward, the actress who captivated a generation as Meggie Cleary in the iconic miniseries *The Thorn Birds*, has charted a remarkable path from international stardom to a life dedicated to filmmaking and environmental stewardship. Now 68, Ward has traded the Hollywood spotlight for the rhythms of a farm, leading a new chapter as a director and advocate for regenerative agriculture.
Early Life & Modelling Career
Born Rachel Claire Ward on September 12, 1957, in Oxfordshire, England, she was raised in an aristocratic family. She left school at 16 to pursue modelling, quickly gracing the covers of *Vogue*, *Harper’s & Queen*, and *Cosmopolitan*. Her striking looks led her to television commercials and, inevitably, to acting. She moved to the United States in 1977, setting the stage for her film debut.
Breakthrough & Stardom
Ward’s early film roles in *Sharky’s Machine* (1981) and *Dead Men Don’t Wear Plaid* (1982) established her presence. However, her career-defining moment came in 1983 with the television miniseries *The Thorn Birds*. Her portrayal of Meggie Cleary opposite Richard Chamberlain earned her a Golden Globe nomination and made her a household name worldwide. The role also led to her meeting Australian actor Bryan Brown, whom she married later that year. She continued her film career with notable roles in *Against All Odds* (1984) and *The Umbrella Woman* (1987) with Brown.
A New Chapter: Filmmaking & Farming
In the 2000s, Ward successfully transitioned behind the camera. She wrote and directed her first feature film, *Beautiful Kate*, in 2009, which premiered at the Sydney Film Festival. She has since directed television episodes for series like *Rake* and *The Straits*.
Her most profound recent transformation, however, is personal. For the past several years, Ward has immersed herself in converting the family farm in New South Wales, Australia, from conventional to regenerative farming. Motivated by severe drought and bushfires, she documented this challenging, physical journey in the 2023 documentary *Rachel’s Farm*, which she directed and executive produced. The film serves as a call to action for sustainable land management, a cause she now champions passionately.
Key Facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Rachel Claire Ward, AM (Member of the Order of Australia) |
| Born | September 12, 1957 (Chipping Norton, Oxfordshire, England) |
| Nationality | British, Australian |
| Spouse | Bryan Brown (married 1983) |
| Children | Three: Rosie, Matilda, and Joe |
| Known For | Actress (*The Thorn Birds*), Director (*Beautiful Kate*, *Rachel’s Farm*) |
| Current Focus | Regenerative farming, environmental advocacy |
Personal Life & Legacy
Ward’s marriage to Bryan Brown, now spanning over four decades, is a celebrated union in Australian arts. They have three children and are doting grandparents. In interviews, both credit their longevity to independence, shared humour, and deep mutual respect. While Brown has recently published crime novels, Ward finds her purpose and a profound sense of belonging working the land, stating she has never felt more at peace.
Rachel Ward’s legacy is one of evolution: from a cover model and Hollywood actress to an acclaimed director and, now, a dedicated environmentalist. Her journey reflects a continual search for meaningful work and a commitment to leaving the earth better than she found it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Rachel Ward doing now?
Rachel Ward is actively involved in regenerative farming on her property in New South Wales, Australia. She continues to work in film, most recently as the director and subject of the 2023 documentary *Rachel’s Farm*, which chronicles her agricultural journey.
Is Rachel Ward still married to Bryan Brown?
Yes. Rachel Ward and Bryan Brown met on the set of *The Thorn Birds* in 1983 and married that same year. They celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary in 2023 and remain together, splitting their time between their farm and a home in Sydney.
What was Rachel Ward’s most famous role?
She is best known globally for her starring role as Meggie Cleary in the 1983 television miniseries *The Thorn Birds*. The role earned her a Golden Globe nomination and international fame.