Australian radio legend John Laws, known as the “Golden Tonsils,” has died at age 90.
His family confirmed the news in a statement on Sunday, saying:
“Today marks a very difficult day for our family, with the news that our beloved father/grandfather/uncle John Laws has died peacefully at home.”
Laws passed away at his home in Woolloomooloo, Sydney, after spending two weeks in hospital in October.
“While fame and prominence had become a mainstay of his life, for us he was always the person who meant so much, away from the microphone, the cameras, and the headlines,” his family said.
“It is comforting to know that John’s was a life lived well – he had remained in good health and even better spirits right up until the last few weeks.”
Laws spent an incredible 71 years on air, working for stations such as 2UE and 2SM before retiring in November 2024. His radio journey began in 1953 at 3BO in Bendigo.
Over his career, he also did voice-over work, recorded songs, and appeared on TV as a host and panellist.
He received an Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 1974 for his services to broadcasting and charity, later upgraded to a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 1978.
Fellow broadcasters, politicians, and fans have paid tribute to Laws.
Radio host Kyle Sandilands wrote on X:
“John Laws was one of the true originals. You could never mistake him for anyone else. He said what he thought, didn’t care who he offended, but could also show deep compassion when required.
I’m devastated to have lost a mentor and a mate. Radio won’t be the same without him.”
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called Laws’ voice “iconic,” noting that he had interviewed 17 prime ministers during his long career.
NSW Premier Chris Minns described Laws’ career as “extraordinary.”
“Few broadcasters have left such a deep and lasting mark on Australian media,” he said. “His legacy lies not only in the thousands of hours on air, but in the connection he forged with millions of Australians.”
Opposition leader Mark Speakman said Laws “was the voice that shaped a nation.”
“He dominated Australian radio for decades, setting the standard for talkback and challenging politics, culture and public debate like no-one else.”
Former prime minister John Howard remembered him as “a dominating presence on Sydney and national radio.”
“He was always ready with an opinion, never shirking controversial issues. It was a pleasurable as well as combative experience to be interviewed by John.”