Brian Walsh, who died suddenly last week, was a mentor to many, a loyal friend with a magic touch for television content.
He began his career with ABC before going into feature film production and later he was a key member of the management team that established Australian subscription television with the launch of Foxtel.
His name is linked to a long line of television successes including the Kennedy Miller mini-series Vietnam, The Bangkok Hilton and The Dirtwater Dynasty.
And he is also credited with responsibility for the global success of the iconic Australian family drama series, Neighbours, and launching the careers of Kylie Minogue, Jason Donovan and Guy Pearce.
The tributes from many who were touched by Brian Walsh have been flowing on social media.
Mark Green, president, The Monkeys, Accenture Song: "Saddened by the news of Brian Walsh passing. He was one of the true believers in the power of creativity and storytelling. The Monkeys wouldn't have happened if it wasn't for him. He changed our lives."
Patrick Delaney, group CEO, Foxtel: “Our hearts are broken. Today, along with the entire creative industry, we are mourning the loss of Brian Walsh. He was a pioneer in Australian television and a long-time mentor, confidant, colleague, and unwavering friend to many.
“Over the 28-year history of this company, there are very few decisions, content moves, commissions, and promotions that did not involve Brian. He started with the company before we were on air in 1994 and has continually been with us since then leaving a lasting impact.
“In an era where so many media executives try to make the story about themselves, Brian led the way to make sure it was always about others creating many careers and franchises that endure today.
“He was one of a kind. We have lost an icon of Australian television who will never be replaced. Vale Brian Walsh.”
Nikki Warburton, non-executive director: “A beautiful tribute Patrick Delany . An absolute legend of the media industry. Still in shock. So very sad and just can’t believe it. RIP Walshie.”
Lisa Squillace: “I am so shocked to wake up to this news, Brian Walsh was and will always be an utter legend in our industry.”
Kylie Merritt, founder and managing director at ausbiz: “My thoughts are with the Foxtel family today Patrick Delany, he really was the heartbeat of the business, and just such a good person. Vale.”
Mark Frain, CEO Foxtel Media: “This is a truly sad day for Foxtel Group, losing Brian Walsh, aka 'Walshie'. A friend, work colleague of 1000s people across his 28-year Foxtel history and the broader creative industry.
“When I first joined Foxtel, Walshie was always there to guide, support and provide creativity like no other. Iconic figure, legend, content bible, there are not many that leave such a rich, deep legacy. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and those closest to him. RIP Walshie.
Emma Hogan, Secretary for Digital, NSW Department of Customer Service NSW: “We worked together for 9.5 years. He was a force to be reckoned with throughout and he knew TV like no other.
“He valued loyalty above all else and he loved his team. He was a king-maker both for those on screen, and for those behind it.
“BW was generous with who and what he knew. Thanks to him I met Hugh Jackman in New York, and once, in a story for another time he helped me hide Cate Blanchett in the kitchen of the Opera House so that we could surprise our then boss Kim Williams for his 10 year CEO anniversary. There are so many stories.
“He truly loved entertainment and spent almost all of his life promoting and delivering that to others.
“When I left Foxtel in 2016 he was involved in throwing me an epic farewell party, where he brought my favourite cast members of Wentworth up from Melbourne as a surprise. Walshie didn’t do things by halves.
“My favourite memory of Brian is at the end of that party. I had delivered a speech that spoke to my journey at Foxtel and he asked if I would sign it, and if he could keep it. It was the ultimate compliment from someone like him.
“We kept in touch. When revisiting our text exchanges today, I found an interaction from a year ago upon the passing of a mutual friend, at the end of which he wrote ‘Hope all is well with you, these things make you realise you have to live life to the fullest’.
“Walshie, that’s certainly how you lived yours.
“Thinking of everyone at Foxtel Group today, as well as his nearest and dearest. In particular the lovely Lauren Sheens, Stephen Baldwin and Jamie Campbell
“Vale.”
Robert Gilby, CEO Asia Pacific, dentsu: “My condolences to you and the Foxtel family. Brian was such a positive force of life. I always admired his vision, passion, commitment and kindness.”
Dean Dezius, general manager, Freeview Australia: “He was the reason I left Triple M in the 90s and joined FOXTEL/XYZ Entertainment at what was then called RED TV, later Channel [V]. He took a chance on me taking on the channel manager role at The Comedy Channel and I enjoyed many years of working for him in various roles at FOXTEL.
“Television and entertainment was in his blood and very few people had the passion he had for what he did. For me, you can't think of FOXTEL without thinking of Brian. It's a huge loss for our industry and my sincere condolences go out to his family including his television family across FTA and FOXTEL. Vale Brian.”
Daniel Wallman, former content manager at Foxtel: “BW was a massively important part of who I am today and was instrumental in my progression within the media industry. He pushed me when I didn’t think I was capable enough and believed in me in the times when I doubted myself. I am only one example of the countless number of people he gave his time, expertise and advice to.
“I’ll always remember his infectious laugh and a personality that lit up every room he walked into.
“The media world has lost a true legend.”
Darren Chau, head of production, ANZ, Discovery: “I am eternally grateful and indebted to Brian for many things.
“Brian gave me my first job as a television executive, hiring me to head up programming and production for the Comedy Channel and later a suite of entertainment channels.
"They were 5 incredible years. We launched channels, made dozens of television shows, discovered and developed a heap of talent and grew audiences. It’s fair to say that we didn’t always agree and shared many robust discussions and debates - and to his credit, this is something he encouraged.
"When I once had the crazy idea of acquiring 692 episodes of a thirty year old show called Prisoner - nobody believed it would work. However, Brian backed me and its success resulted in the commissioning and creation of Wentworth. There are just so many of these stories in his long career.
“When I was once presented with 2 career opportunities Brian generously shared his wisdom and gave me some valuable advice. It propelled me into a phenomenal next phase of my career.
“I’ll never forget Brian’s kindness when my Dad passed away. He just had the right words. I wish I had the right words right now. Brian was such a unique individual. He had so much passion, charm, warmth, wit, kindness and generosity. His contribution, reach and legacy was truly monumental. He will be greatly missed.
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