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Johnny Young Dies at 79

Family said he died after a brief battle with pancreatic cancer, prompting tributes from former proteges as the family prepares memorial details.

Overview

  • His family announced his death and said he had a short fight with pancreatic cancer and that memorial arrangements will be announced soon.
  • Young created and hosted the television show Young Talent Time from 1971 to 1988, a weekly variety program that became a staple of Australian family TV.
  • The show launched the careers of performers such as Dannii Minogue, Tina Arena and Debra Byrne and served as an informal training ground for young entertainers.
  • Beyond television, Young wrote notable pop songs including 'The Real Thing' for Russell Morris and 'Smiley' for Ronnie Burns, sustaining a parallel career in music.
  • He is survived by his wife Marisha, daughters Anna and Fleur, his sister Cornelia, seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, and his death has prompted public tributes and likely retrospectives on his influence in Australian entertainment.