Forty years after leaving the set of Skippy the Bush Kangaroo, actor Tony Bonner has begun a test case for a share of the iconic television show's profits.
Bonner, who played helicopter pilot Flight Ranger Jerry King in the first series in 1968, has taken action in the NSW Supreme Court against Fauna Productions Pty Ltd.
The 64-year-old's case was mentioned briefly in the court on Monday and put over to November 14 for another mention.
He is seeking declarations he is entitled to a share of profits generated over the years from the show, merchandising and related spin-offs.
Despite being very supportive of the show, Bonner said he had never received any residual payments, adding people always assumed he must be doing well from royalties.
"When I signed the agreement with them for production in 1967, VHS was not even heard of, let alone DVDs or the internet," Bonner told AAP from his Sydney home on Monday.
"Intellectual property had never been heard of."
He said he felt "enough is enough" when he saw yet another release of DVDs of the series.
While a "few dollars my way would be most appreciated", Bonner said his action also was a test case.
"It will assist other actors, writers, directors and sports people who enter contracts that their intellectual property would be protected," Bonner said.
