John Laws: Sydney legendary radio host ‘the Golden Tonsils’ dies aged 90

Australian radio has lost a legend following the death of John Laws, who passed away on Sunday, November 9 at the age of 90.

Mr Laws announced to his 2Sm audience that he would be retiring in October 2024, bringing his epic career spanning more than seven decades.

His final day on air was Friday, November 8, 2024.

Mr Laws began broadcasting in the 1950s and became a dominant figure in talkback radio, blending sharp political commentary with a smooth, commanding style.

He built his career across some of Australia’s biggest stations, including 2UE, 2SM and 2GB. His long-running ‘John Laws Morning Show’ was later syndicated nationwide through the Super Radio Network, making him one of the most recognisable voices in Australian broadcasting.

He became one of Australia’s most recognisable radio personalities, known as the “Golden Tonsils” for his distinctive voice which was so well-known and trusted he was often said to be able to sell anything.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese paid tribute to Mr Laws on Sunday evening, describing the late broadcaster as an “iconic voice and so much more”.

“Generations of Australians trusted and respected him for telling it straight, digging deep and giving his guests and his listeners a chance to be heard,” he said in a statement posted online.

“John was always a thoroughly prepared and thoughtful interviewer - and wonderful company off-air.

“My condolences to his loved ones and to all who benefited from his wisdom and guidance.”

Radio host Kyle Sandilands described Mr Law as “one of the true originals” in a tribute posted on X.

“You could never mistake him for anyone else. He said what he thought, didn’t care who he offended, but could also show deep compassion when required,” he said.

“I’m devastated to have lost a mentor and a mate.

“Radio won’t be the same without him.”

NSW Premier Chris Minns said Mr Laws’ voice “resonated across the nation for more than seven decades,” describing the late broadcaster as a “towering figure in Australian radio”.

“Few broadcasters have left such a deep and lasting mark on Australian media,” he said.

“On behalf of the NSW Government, I extend my deepest condolences to John’s family, friends, colleagues and all who listened, learned and were challenged by him.

“His legacy lies not only in the thousands of hours on air, but in the connection he forged with millions of Australians, and the mark he left on broadcasting in this country.

“Vale John Laws.”

The Daily Telegraph reported Mr Laws was in palliative care in recent weeks before his death.