Veteran broadcaster and saxophonist James Valentine has announced his retirement from the ABC after almost 40 years, citing his ongoing battle with oesophageal cancer. The 64-year-old has hosted Sydney's Afternoons program on ABC Radio for 25 years.
Valentine, who joined the public broadcaster in 1987 as host of the Afternoon Show for kids on ABC TV, revealed his diagnosis live on air in 2024. He took time off for surgery, describing himself as “equal parts hopeful and terrified”. After returning, he left again in June 2024 when new tumours were discovered.
On Monday, Valentine told ABC Sydney listeners: “It’s sad news, it’s definitely sad news for me. This decision has been hard for me to make, but look, I think my health is giving me a pretty clear message that it still might be a while until I could return and resume broadcasting.” He added that he needs to focus on getting better and spending time with family and friends.
Listeners expressed their sadness, with many crying on air during the announcement. Valentine is known for his creativity and offbeat humour, with popular segments including 'rant', 'petty crimes', and 'this is what I live with'. His longtime producer, Jennifer Fleming, is compiling a two-hour retrospective of the show to air on Friday.
Valentine also had a successful music career, playing saxophone in bands with Jo Camilleri, Wendy Matthews, and Kate Ceberano, among others. He continues to perform with the James Valentine Quartet in Sydney.
