Marty Morton, Hey, Hey It’s Saturday star, dies aged 82
Beloved Australian entertainer Marty Morton has died, aged 82.
Morton, best known for his roles in the 1970s children’s shows The Super Flying Fun Show and Hey, Hey It’s Saturday, died on Friday following a long battle with cancer.
He leaves behind two sons, Anthony and Terry, who confirmed the news.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.“It is with great sadness that my first post in a very long time, is to let you know that my father, Marty (Darrell) Morton passed away on the morning of Friday,” Terry Morton said on behalf of the family.
“He almost made it to 83.
“I love him and will miss him big time.”
Morton was born in Lancashire in the north of England in 1941 before he moved to Australia with his family at a young age.
The 82-year-old’s career in show business started out on the stage and went on to span more than 50 years.
A talented ventriloquist, Morton became a regular face on television, where he appeared with puppet Emu on The Super Flying Fun Show alongside Marilyn Mayo.
Along with his work in children’s television, Morton also featured in a string of other guest roles including on Spyforce, Division 4, The Young Doctors and All Saints, and maintained a presence on the cabaret and comedy circuit.
His contributions to Australian entertainment were recognised by the Australian Entertainment Mo Awards, where he was awarded the Versatile Variety Act of the Year in 1982, 1983 and 1986.
A celebration of his life will be held on Monday, with attendees asked to dress “happy and bright with even a touch of cringe if you feel the need”.
“It’s dad, remember,” Terry said.
“Dad had two favourite charities, A.L.V.A inc. (entertainers’ benevolent fund), and the Cancer Council.
“Dad would have preferred a donation to charity rather than flowers.”
