Loading ...Who Was Jack Karlson?
- Real identity and aliases:
Jack Karlson was likely not his birth name. He was born as Cecil George Edwards. But he had also been identified by aliases including Johann Kelmut Karlson and Cecil Gerry Edwards. - Early life:
He had a difficult childhood — reportedly spent in institutional care as a child. - He became involved in crime from a young age, leading to a life of prison stints, escapes, and criminal activity.
The Arrest That Made Him a Viral Legend
- 1991 Arrest:
In October 1991, Karlson was arrested at the China Sea Restaurant in Fortitude Valley (Brisbane).
The police were reportedly tracking him because of suspected credit card fraud — he allegedly paid for meals using stolen credit cards. - Aftermath:
Despite the theatrical arrest, Karlson was released soon after — possibly because of mistaken identity.
The video of his arrest was uploaded to YouTube in 2009, and it quickly went viral.
Life Beyond the Meme
- Criminal career:
Karlson was more than just a viral meme — he had a long criminal history, including prison escapes.
His life was described by some as “Dickensian” — full of hardship, crime, and theatrical moments. - Acting and creativity:
He wasn’t just a crook — friends and journalists said he had real showmanship.
In fact, journalist Mark Dapin suggested Karlson should be remembered as an actor.
He even appeared in theatre productions, including those by fellow prisoner-playwright Jim McNeil. - Business endeavours:
At one point, Karlson lent his name (and his meme legacy) to a wine label. According to B&T, there was a pinot noir branded around his “Democracy Manifest” fame.
Final Years and Death
- Health struggles:
In his later life, Karlson was diagnosed with prostate cancer.
His family also said he suffered from systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS).
He spent his final weeks in hospital. - Death:
Jack Karlson died on 7 August 2024, aged 82.
His family released a statement saying he “walked a full and colourful path … he lived by his motto — to keep on laughing.” - Legacy:
— Tributes poured in after his death.
— A documentary about his life — The Man Who Ate A Succulent Chinese Meal — was in the works.
— He remains an enduring figure in Australian pop culture, especially because of how his viral arrest clip captured a quirky, rebellious spirit.