Veteran Australian Talkback Radio Host James Valentine Dies at 64

A prominent figure in Australian talkback radio, James Valentine, passed away at the age of 64, following a two-year battle with cancer. His most notable role was as host of the ABC’s Afternoons program in Sydney, a position he maintained for over two decades, alongside his musical career.

In 2024, Valentine received an oesophageal cancer diagnosis, prompting a break from his work. He made a brief comeback before officially retiring in February. ABC Managing Director Hugh Marks called him a “trusted companion… for generations of our Sydney audience” who brought “warmth, wit and humanity to radio.”

“Throughout his illness, James did it his way, which lasted all the way until the end when he made the choice to do Voluntary Assisted Dying,” the family stated, according to the ABC. “Both he and his family are grateful he was given the option to go out on his own terms. He was calm, dignified as always and somehow still making us laugh.”

He is survived by his wife and two children. The family shared that he “passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by loved ones who cherished him.” Outside of radio, Valentine was a musician, performing with groups like The Models, which achieved two top-charting singles and international tours.

On Thursday, tributes poured in for the beloved broadcaster, with ABC presenter Robbie Buck calling him “joyous, irrepressible, and incredibly sharp.” A former colleague, Richard Glover, noted that Valentine “lifted the city’s spirit daily for 25 years.” Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese praised him as “someone who was always worth listening to.”

Australia’s Governor-General Sam Mostyn highlighted that Valentine had recently been honored with a Member of the Order (AM) award for his contributions to broadcasting, music, and arts advocacy. The accolade was conferred upon his wife and children on Saturday.