Legendary Australian Radio Icon John Laws Dies at 90, Leaves Lasting Legacy

Sydney – John Laws, the legendary Australian talkback radio host famously dubbed the "Golden Tonsils," has passed away at the age of 90. Laws, whose broadcasting career spanned over seven decades, was one of the world’s highest-paid radio personalities at his peak and remains an enduring figure in Australian media history.

Laws’ family confirmed he died peacefully at his Sydney home on Sunday, describing him as their “beloved father, grandfather, and uncle,” adding that beyond his public fame, he was deeply cherished by his loved ones.

Renowned for his signature greeting, “Hello world,” Laws interviewed 17 Australian prime ministers and countless celebrities, shaping political discourse and influencing public opinion across the nation. Former Prime Minister John Howard called him “a dominating presence on Sydney and national radio,” while actor and longtime neighbor Russell Crowe remembered him as a “mischievous mate” and a true Australian legend.

Born in Papua New Guinea in 1935, Laws moved to Australia during World War II. He began his radio career in regional Victoria at just 18, pioneering the talkback radio format at a time when broadcasting laws first allowed airing of listener calls. His shows, broadcast on stations including 2UE, 2GB, and 2SM, attracted millions of listeners, particularly in rural New South Wales.

Laws’ career, though celebrated, was also marked by controversies, including multiple breaches of broadcasting regulations and incidents that drew public criticism. Nevertheless, his influence on Australian radio and politics remained unmatched, with former Prime Minister Paul Keating noting, “If you could convince John Laws, you could convince Australia.”

In addition to radio, Laws ventured into television and film, starring in the 1970 movie Ned Kelly alongside Mick Jagger. He received multiple honors, including induction into the Australian Media Hall of Fame and appointments to the Order of the British Empire, culminating in a Commander of the British Empire (CBE) award for his contributions to broadcasting and charity.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called Laws an “iconic voice,” and the New South Wales Premier Chris Minns announced that Laws’ family will be offered a state funeral in recognition of his immense impact on Australian media and culture.

John Laws’ legacy as a pioneering broadcaster and influential voice will endure across generations of Australian listeners.