Talkback radio icon John Laws, affectionately known as the “Golden Tonsils,” has passed away at the age of 90. The announcement was made by his family, who shared that Laws had maintained “good health and even better spirits right up until the last few weeks.” They expressed their sorrow, stating, “Today marks a very difficult day for our family, with the news that our beloved father, grandfather, and uncle John Laws has died peacefully at home.”
John Laws was a towering figure in Australian radio, renowned for his distinctive voice and incisive interviewing style. His career began in 1953 at Bendigo’s 3BO and spanned over seven decades, during which he became a household name across the nation. Laws concluded his illustrious career with a 13-year tenure at Sydney’s 2SM in 2024, marking the end of a remarkable 71-year journey in broadcasting.
Influence and Legacy in Australian Radio
Laws was particularly known for his work at Sydney station 2UE, where he developed a fierce rivalry with fellow broadcaster Alan Jones. He was celebrated for his ability to engage with politicians across the spectrum, forging friendships with several prime ministers and influencing public opinion. A notable moment in his career was the 1986 interview with then-Treasurer Paul Keating, during which Keating warned of Australia becoming a “banana republic,” a statement that sent shockwaves through the nation.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese led the tributes, acknowledging Laws’ significant impact on Australian media. “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,” Albanese stated. Other prominent figures, including radio host Kyle Sandilands and NSW Premier Chris Minns, also paid homage to Laws’ enduring legacy.
Tributes from Colleagues and Leaders
NSW Premier Chris Minns described Laws as a “towering figure in Australian radio whose voice resonated across the nation for more than seven decades.” Former Nationals leader Barnaby Joyce reflected on their friendship, noting Laws’ exceptional skill in engaging with listeners. “Good talkback hosts have a rolled gold attribute for success; they are very clever with the facts and brilliant with the psychology,” Joyce remarked.
Opposition Leader Sussan Ley emphasized Laws’ pioneering contributions to broadcasting, stating, “His unmistakable voice became part of our national soundtrack. He informed and entertained millions, asked the tough questions, and always made space for others to be heard.”
Controversies and Accolades
Despite his accolades, Laws’ career was not without controversy. In 1999, he was embroiled in the “cash for comment” scandal, accused of promoting paid advertisements without disclosure. He faced further scrutiny in 2004 and 2020 for breaching broadcasting codes, including privacy violations and inappropriate comments.
Nonetheless, Laws’ contributions to broadcasting were widely recognized. He received numerous awards, including the OBE in 1974, the CBE in 1978, and was named International Broadcaster of the Year in 2004. His legacy was cemented with inductions into the Commercial Radio Hall of Fame, the Australian Media Hall of Fame, and the Country Music Association Hall of Fame.
John Laws’ passing marks the end of an era in Australian radio, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to influence and inspire future generations of broadcasters. As the nation mourns, his family, friends, and countless listeners reflect on the indelible impact he made both on and off the airwaves.
