James Valentine, the much-loved ABC radio presenter and saxophonist, has died at the age of 64, three months after retiring from the public broadcaster. His family confirmed that he chose voluntary assisted dying after a battle with oesophageal cancer.
Valentine hosted ABC Radio Sydney's Afternoons program for 25 years, becoming a fixture on the airwaves. He began his career at the ABC in 1987 hosting the children's show Afternoon Show on ABC TV, having spent a decade playing in bands including the Models. He moved to radio in 1999 and briefly presented ABC Radio Breakfast in 2022 and 2023.
In 2024, Valentine revealed live on air that he had oesophageal cancer and was taking time off for surgery. He returned to work but left again in June 2024 when new tumours were discovered. His family said he passed peacefully at home, surrounded by his wife Joanne and children Ruby and Roy. 'James did it his way, which lasted all the way until the end when he made the choice to do voluntary assisted dying,' they said.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese paid tribute, saying Valentine was 'part of our lives' and 'always worth listening to'. Governor-General Sam Mostyn revealed that Valentine had been recommended for a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) award just a week before his death, and the medal was presented to him privately.
Colleagues and friends remembered Valentine for his warmth, wit, and unique segments such as 'rant' and 'petty crimes'. ABC managing director Hugh Marks called him a 'trusted companion' who turned airwaves into a place of companionship. Former Drive presenter Richard Glover said Valentine 'lifted the mood of a city over such a long time'.
