Post by : Rameen Ariff

Sydney – John Laws, revered as the "Golden Tonsils" of Australian talkback radio, has died at the age of 90. With a broadcasting career that stretched over seven decades, he was once among the highest-paid radio hosts globally, cementing his status as a key figure in Australia’s media landscape.

His family announced that he passed away peacefully at his home in Sydney on Sunday, affectionately describing him as a “beloved father, grandfather, and uncle,” emphasizing the deep love shared among his close ones beyond his public persona.

Known for his signature phrase, “Hello world,” Laws conducted interviews with 17 Australian prime ministers and numerous celebrities, playing a crucial role in shaping political dialogues and public sentiment throughout the nation. Former Prime Minister John Howard referred to him as “a towering presence in radio,” while actor and neighbor Russell Crowe remembered him as a “mischievous mate” and a classic Australian character.

Born in Papua New Guinea in 1935, Laws relocated to Australia during World War II and began his radio voyage in regional Victoria at the tender age of 18, being a pioneer of the talkback radio format at a time when listener calls were newly permitted. His shows, broadcast on major stations like 2UE, 2GB, and 2SM, drew millions of listeners, especially in rural New South Wales.

Despite his celebrated career, Laws encountered controversies including breaches of broadcasting codes and criticism, yet his influence in Australian radio and politics remained unparalleled. Former Prime Minister Paul Keating famously remarked, “Convince John Laws, and you convince Australia.”

In addition to his radio accomplishments, Laws dabbled in acting, starring in the 1970 film Ned Kelly with Mick Jagger. He earned numerous accolades including a place in the Australian Media Hall of Fame and was appointed to the Order of the British Empire, culminating in a CBE for his significant contributions to broadcasting and philanthropy.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese hailed Laws as an “iconic voice,” while New South Wales Premier Chris Minns announced that the family would be offered a state funeral in recognition of his monumental impact on the media and culture of Australia.

The legacy of John Laws as a trailblazing broadcaster and influential voice will resonate for generations to come among Australian audiences.

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