In 1991, a television news crew captured a memorable scene outside a Brisbane restaurant that would go on to make waves on the internet. Jack Karlson, the man at the center of this viral moment, was caught on camera delivering a dramatic monologue as he was arrested.
This footage, which resurfaced on YouTube in 2009, showcased Karlson’s flamboyant protest against his arrest after enjoying a “succulent Chinese meal.”
Karlson’s arrest, which was actually a case of mistaken identity, saw him loudly proclaiming, “Gentlemen, this is democracy manifest!” and other memorable lines.
His exaggerated reactions, including shouting, “Get your hand off my penis!” as he was taken away, turned the brief encounter into a source of endless memes and even inspired a line of merchandise.
Despite the mix-up, the incident became a cultural touchstone, capturing the public’s imagination.
A Tragic End
Karlson, who recently battled prostate cancer, has passed away just weeks after his condition was publicly revealed.
His story, including the infamous arrest, was detailed in Mark Dapin’s book *Carnage: A Succulent Chinese Meal, Mr. Rent-a-Kill, and the Australian Manson Murders*. Karlson was also featured in an upcoming documentary titled *The Man Who Ate A Succulent Chinese Meal*, highlighting his unusual claim to fame.
A Reunion and Reflection
In a recent effort to promote the documentary, Karlson was reunited with one of the officers who arrested him. This reunion took place on ABC News Breakfast, where Stoll Watt, one of the arresting officers, and Karlson shared their memories of the event.
Watt humorously noted that Karlson deserved an Academy Award for his performance, and the two reminisced about the colorful nature of the arrest.
Legacy and Life
Despite his wrongful arrest, Karlson’s life was marked by numerous run-ins with the law.
He had connections with some of Australia’s most notorious figures from the ’70s to the ’90s, including Sydney gangster Neddy Smith and Melbourne criminal Mark ‘Chopper’ Read. Over the years, he was imprisoned in various Australian jails and even managed to escape custody three times.
Karlson also appeared as an extra in classic Australian TV dramas such as *Homicide*, *Division 4*, and *Matlock Police*, and even made a cameo in a 2020 music video for punk rock band The Chats.
This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!Share on Facebook «||» Share on Twitter «||» Share on Reddit «||» Share on LinkedIn