Radio announcer titan John Laws, known as the golden tonsils, has finally signed off. He died at the age of 90, a 70 year career behind him.
"You be kind to each other" was his signature sign-off at the end of each program.
He would start each show with: "Hello world, I'm John Laws." Then he would play The Lonely Bull performed by Herb Albert and the Tijuana Brass.
The Australian Radio Hall of Fame inductee was also known for his advertising including "Valvoline, you know what I mean" for a motor oil.
He died at his home in the inner-Sydney Woolloomooloo.
His deep voice and combative on air style style echoed the airwaves, and brought in the advertising dollars, for 2GB, 2UW and 2SM
“Today marks a very difficult day for our family, with the news that our beloved father/grandfather/uncle John Laws has died peacefully at home,” his family said.
“While fame and prominence had become a mainstay of his life, for us, he was always the person who meant so much, away from the microphone, the cameras, and the headlines.
“It is comforting to know that John’s was a life lived well – he had remained in good health and even better spirits right up until the last few weeks.”
His influence on popular topics was great. He was widely popular, particularly in Western Sydney and in rural NSW, where the community felt that he spoke for them.
Former prime minister Paul Keating said: ”Forget the Press Gallery; educate John Laws and you educate Australia.”
Current prime minister Anthony Albanese said generations of Australians trusted and respected Laws for telling it straight, digging deep and giving his guests and his listeners a chance to be heard.
“John was always a thoroughly prepared and thoughtful interviewer - and wonderful company off-air,” Albanese said. .
“My condolences to his loved ones and to all who benefited from his wisdom and guidance.”
Kyle Sandilands said Laws was one of the true originals.
"You could never mistake him for anyone else," Sandilands said. "He said what he thought, didn't care who he offended, but could also show deep compassion when required. I'm devastated to have lost a mentor and a mate. Radio won't be the same without him."
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