The Australian broadcasting world is mourning the loss of one of its most distinctive voices, with the passing of radio legend John Laws at age 90.
Known affectionately to his legion of fans as the man with the 'Golden Tonsils', Laws dominated the airwaves for an extraordinary career spanning more than seven decades before his retirement just last year.
A Broadcasting Career Like No Other
John Laws began his remarkable radio journey in the regional Victorian city of Bendigo back in 1953, launching what would become one of the most recognised careers in Australian media history.
His rich, melodious voice became his trademark, earning him the nickname 'Golden Tonsils' and making him instantly identifiable to generations of listeners.
At the peak of his popularity, Laws attracted an astonishing two million listeners to his morning programme, establishing himself as the undisputed king of Australian talkback radio.
His career saw him work across multiple major stations including four separate stints at Sydney's 2UE, along with periods at 2GB, 2UW and 2SM.
Tributes Flow for an Australian Icon
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese led the tributes, describing Laws as 'an iconic voice and so much more'.
'Generations of Australians trusted and respected him for telling it straight, digging deep and giving his guests and his listeners a chance to be heard,' the Prime Minister stated.
NSW Premier Chris Minns called Laws a 'towering figure in Australian radio whose voice resonated across the nation for more than seven decades'.
Fellow broadcaster Kyle Sandilands shared his personal grief on social media platform X, writing: 'I'm devastated to have lost a mentor and a mate. Radio won't be the same without him.'
A Legacy of Awards and Recognition
Laws' contribution to Australian broadcasting was formally recognised with numerous honours throughout his career.
He was inducted into the Australian Radio Hall of Fame in 2003 and received an ARIA lifetime achievement award in 2008.
Such was his value to the industry that at one point he was reportedly the best-paid radio broadcaster in the world, with 2UE management famously presenting him with a golden microphone in recognition of his status.
Born in New Guinea on August 8, 1935, Laws moved to Australia with his family as a schoolboy, eventually becoming one of the most influential voices in the country's media landscape.
His unique blend of entertainment, information and opinion, delivered with that unmistakable voice, ensured his place in broadcasting history and in the hearts of millions of Australians.
