Radio presenter Brian Wilshire has died, aged 81.
Veteran radio presenter Brian Wilshire has passed away at the age of 81, sparking a flood of tributes and heartfelt messages from colleagues and long-time listeners who admired the broadcasting “great.” On Wednesday, 2GB Sydney Afternoons host Michael McLaren delivered the difficult news during what he described as the “hardest opening editorial I’ve ever had to deliver.”
“Yesterday I learnt of the passing of a man who wasn’t just a great in the world of radio broadcasting but he was for many years a friend and a colleague and for me he was a mentor,” McLaren shared, reflecting the deep personal loss felt by many who knew Wilshire.
A Storied Career in Radio
Wilshire’s illustrious radio career began in 1969 at 2NZ in Inverell, northern New South Wales, before he joined 2GB in 1979 as the host of the Weeknights program. His innovative spirit was evident in 1981 when he pioneered the Midnight Matchmaker and created the Instant Drama show, where callers improvised dramatic scenes—a format that would later evolve into Theatre Sports.
Despite his public presence, McLaren revealed during his on-air address that he was unaware of Wilshire’s illness. “In fact, I don’t think too many people did,” he said, highlighting the private nature of Wilshire’s final days.
McLaren recounted a poignant moment when he sent Wilshire a message about a month ago after losing contact “for years.” Days later, he received a late-night phone call from Wilshire, which he let go to voicemail. “I wish I hadn’t because it was Brian. And listening to the message it was the first time in a very long time I’d heard that voice,” McLaren lamented. “As it turns out it would also be the last time.”
Controversies and Apologies
Wilshire’s career was not without its controversies. In 2005, he faced backlash for comments made about Lebanese Australians following the Cronulla riots. “Many of them have parents who are first cousins whose parents were first cousins,” he told listeners, adding, “The result of this is inbreeding—the result of which is uneducationable (sic) people … and very low IQ.”
“I understand that those comments may have caused offence to some members of the Lebanese community and I unreservedly retract those comments and I apologise for any offence that might have been caused,” Wilshire later apologized, acknowledging the impact of his words.
Remembering a Radio Legend
Tributes have poured in from friends and colleagues alike. Fellow broadcaster Jason Morrison described Wilshire as “a lovely bloke and a gentleman to work with,” noting his dominance in late-night radio for over three decades. “Brian was ahead of the curve on many issues. He had a great mind and power to analyse—and a great calming voice on the air,” Morrison added.
News reader Geoff Field also paid tribute, calling Wilshire a “legend.” He recalled, “I got to know Brian in the early 90’s when I was a young newsreader at 2GB. He certainly had some interesting views, but always treated me with respect.”
Listeners shared their memories, with one noting, “He’s the only broadcaster I know who could talk for hours without a caller phone in,” while another expressed, “I feel like I have lost a friend. First started listening to Brian when I was 20. Now I’m 68.”
“Brian made an impression and still does. In many ways he framed my young brain to think differently and be different. I have carried this for my life and continue to share with my children and grandchildren—that is the legacy one man can leave.”
The Legacy of Brian Wilshire
Brian Wilshire’s passing marks the end of an era for Sydney radio, but his impact will be felt for generations. His innovative contributions to radio broadcasting and the personal connections he fostered with both colleagues and listeners leave a lasting legacy. As the radio community and fans mourn his loss, they also celebrate a life dedicated to the airwaves and the indelible mark he left on the industry.
