John Laws: Sydney legendary radio host ‘the Golden Tonsils’ dies aged 90
Australian radio has lost a legend following the death of John Laws, who passed away on Sunday, November 9, aged 90.
Mr. Laws announced to 2Sm viewers that he will retire in October 2024, bringing with him an epic career spanning over seven decades.
Its last day on air was Friday, November 8, 2024.
Mr. Laws began broadcasting in the 1950s and became a dominant figure in talkback radio, blending sharp political commentary with a gentle, commanding tone.
He developed his career on some of Australia’s biggest stations including 2UE, 2SM and 2GB. His long-running ‘John Laws Morning Show’ was subsequently broadcast nationwide via the Super Radio Network, establishing him as one of the most recognizable voices in Australian broadcasting.
He became one of Australia’s best-known radio personalities and became known as “Golden Tonsils” for his distinctive voice; He became so well known and trusted that he was often said to be able to sell anything.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese paid tribute to Mr Laws on Sunday evening, describing the late broadcaster as “an iconic voice and so much more”.
“Generations of Australians have trusted and respected him because he gets it straight, digs deep and gives his guests and listeners the chance to have their voices heard,” he said in a statement posted online.
“John was always a thoroughly prepared and thoughtful interviewer and a great friend off the air.
“I offer my condolences to his loved ones and all those who benefited from his wisdom and guidance.”
Radio presenter Kyle Sandilands described Mr Law as “one of the true originals” in a tribute published on X.
“You could never confuse him with anyone else. He said what he thought, he didn’t care who he offended, but he could also show deep compassion when necessary,” he said.
“I am devastated to have lost a mentor and a friend.
“Radio won’t be the same without him.”
NSW Premier Chris Minns said Mr Laws’ voice had “resonated across the country for more than seven decades” and described the late broadcaster as “a towering figure in Australian radio”.
“Few broadcasters have left such a deep and lasting mark on Australian media,” he said.
“On behalf of the NSW Government, I offer my deepest condolences to John’s family, friends, colleagues and all those who listened, learned and were challenged by him.
“His legacy lies not just in the thousands of hours he broadcast, but in the connection he made with millions of Australians and the mark he left broadcasting across this country.
“Vale John Laws.”
The Daily Telegraph reported that Mr Laws was in palliative care in the final weeks before his death.
