Tributes are flowing following the news Australian TV and radio icon Bert Newton has died at age 83.
Newton had been battling complications since surgery to have his leg amputated in May and is survived by his wife Patti, children Lauren and Matthew and extended family.
As the news was confirmed on Saturday night, former colleagues and notable public figures shared their memories of Newton from his six-decade career, which spanned radio, theatre and television.
First with the news was journalist Peter Ford, who told news.com.au that Patti Newton, Bert’s beloved wife of 46 years, asked him to confirm the sad news on his family’s behalf.
I have very sad news ….
Showbiz icon Bert Newton has died at age 83.
It was remarkable career on TV, stage & radio. Sadly he didn’t get the last chapter he deserved. He was a great mentor & friend to me.
Condolences to Patti,Lauren,Matthew & extended family.— Peter Ford (@mrpford) October 30, 2021
Today Extra host David Campbell described the TV icon’s passing as the “absolute end of an era”, touching on the role Newton had played in his own TV career: “Thank you for giving this young singer a chance on your show”.
#BREAKING: Bert Newton, a legend of Australian TV and radio, has died at age 83.
Newton was a Logie Hall of Fame inductee, quadruple Gold Logie-winning entertainer and a radio, theatre and television personality and presenter.
MORE: https://t.co/yDZu6usyRd#9News pic.twitter.com/xqFRWRxQSi
— 9News Australia (@9NewsAUS) October 30, 2021
2GB Drive host Jim Wilson recalled growing up with the “legendary” host, who he described as a “national treasure” in the media industry.
So very sad the passing of Bert Newton, one of our greats and thoughts with Patti and the family. Grew up with the legendary Bert Newton, an incredible talent and could he think on his feet. Like Graham Kennedy, a national treasure when it comes to our industry
— Jim Wilson (@JimWilsonMedia) October 30, 2021
Fellow 2GB radio host Chris Smith remembered Newton’s “incredible empathy for those doing it tough”.
I remember so many interviews with Bert Newton. He always made us laugh, and had incredible empathy for those doing it tough. A true Austn legend. VALE Bert
— Chris Smith (@chrissmithonair) October 30, 2021
Doctor Doctor star Rodger Corser simply wrote, “What a legend of Aussie TV and entertainment”.
Image: Instagram / David Campbell
