John Laws, the legendary Australian talkback radio host renowned for his “Golden Tonsils” voice, has died at age 90, marking the end of a seven-decade broadcasting career that cemented his status as a national icon. His passing on November 9, 2025, at his Sydney home, was announced by his family, who remembered him as a cherished figure beyond the spotlight, sparking tributes from political leaders and celebrities alike.
Laws died peacefully in the inner-Sydney suburb of Woolloomooloo, with his family releasing a statement expressing their grief and highlighting that he remained in good health and spirits until his final weeks. The broadcaster, who had spent two weeks in hospital in October, was surrounded by loved ones, and the New South Wales government has offered a state funeral to honor his contributions. His death concludes a life deeply intertwined with Australian media, leaving a void in the hearts of many who admired his work.
Over a career spanning 71 years, Laws became one of Australia’s most recognizable voices, starting in regional Victoria in 1953 at age 18 and rising to dominate airwaves across the country. At his peak, his morning radio show attracted two million listeners, making him one of the world’s highest-paid commercial radio hosts, and he was known for his signature greeting, “Hello world.” His influence extended through various Sydney stations, including 2UE, 2GB, and 2SM, with his programs broadcast nationwide, particularly resonating in rural New South Wales.
Laws wielded significant political clout, interviewing 17 Australian prime ministers and countless celebrities, with former Prime Minister Paul Keating noting that convincing Laws was key to swaying public opinion. His unique blend of entertainment, information, and opinion, delivered in his rich, melodious voice, earned him the nickname “Golden Tonsils” and a gold-plated microphone from his employer in 2003. This influence made him a pivotal figure during elections, as politicians sought his platform to reach the masses.
However, his career was marred by controversies, including the 1999 “cash-for-comment” scandal where he and fellow broadcaster Alan Jones were found to have breached rules by accepting payments for on-air endorsements without disclosure. Laws also faced legal issues, such as a contempt of court charge for interviewing a juror and convictions for homosexual vilification, as well as more recent breaches of industry regulations for offensive on-air comments. These incidents highlighted the polarizing nature of his persona, balancing fame with frequent public scrutiny.
Tributes poured in from across Australia, with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese describing Laws as an “iconic voice” and a thoughtful interviewer who gave listeners a chance to be heard. Actor Russell Crowe, a former neighbor, called him a “mischievous mate” and a legend, while colleagues like Kyle Sandilands praised his authenticity and compassion. The outpouring of respect underscored his enduring impact on both the media industry and personal relationships, reflecting a career built on connection and controversy.
Laws’ legacy includes numerous accolades, such as induction into the Australian Media Hall of Fame and the Australian Radio Hall of Fame, along with a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) for his services to broadcasting and charity. Born in Papua New Guinea in 1935, he moved to Australia during World War II and pioneered talkback radio as the medium evolved, branching into television and film, including a role in the 1970 movie “Ned Kelly.” His retirement in November 2024 after 71 years on air was a quiet capstone to a tumultuous yet triumphant journey.
In the wake of his death, Australians are reflecting on Laws’ profound mark on media and culture, with his voice symbolizing an era of radio dominance. The offer of a state funeral by NSW Premier Chris Minns emphasizes his lasting significance, as the nation mourns a broadcaster who both challenged and charmed listeners for generations. His story serves as a reminder of the power of voice in shaping public discourse, leaving a legacy that will be studied and remembered for years to come.
