Chopper Read, born Mark Brandon Read in 1954, is an Australian criminal and author known for his notorious life as a gangster. He gained fame in the 1990s for his violent criminal activities, including armed robbery and extortion, and became a prominent figure in the Melbourne underworld. In addition to his criminal exploits, Chopper Read is recognized for his writing and acting career. He authored several books, including his autobiography, which details his life of crime and time in prison. His story has been adapted into films, further cementing his status as a cultural icon in Australia.