Veteran radio broadcaster James Valentine has died through voluntary assisted dying at the age of 64, with tributes pouring in.
Veteran radio broadcaster James Valentine has died through voluntary assisted dying at the age of 64. The DJ was previously diagnosed with oesophageal cancer in 2024, and stepped back from the airwaves to focus on treatment.
The late star was a staple of Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) and presented their Afternoons radio series for around 20 years. His family confirmed his death in a statement via ABC, which read: “James passed peacefully at home surrounded by his family, who adored him.
“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.
“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.”
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Tributes poured in for Valentine following the news, with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese leading condolences on Twitter. He wrote: “With the passing of James Valentine, we have lost one of our national treasures.
“ Australia first got to know James through the sound of his saxophone, most notably in his years with the Models. But it was as a mainstay on the ABC that we really got to know his voice.
“As a presenter and as an author, James was an incisive, witty and often mischievous presence. When he was on, you always felt like you were in the very best of company. Our thoughts now are with his loved ones. May James Valentine rest in peace.”
Fans shared their own memories underneath Valentine’s latest Instagram post, with one penning: “Love you James – will never forget all the joy you gave me for soooo many years. Treasuring your memory as the tears flow [sic].”
“Bless you and your family. Grateful to leave under your own terms x,” a follower said, as another commented: “Rest in peace. You made me laugh and smile for 25 years.”
“So very sorry to hear today’s news.,” an Instagram user added. “James felt like a close friend over so many years, while listening on the ABC. Sending much love to James’ family at this very difficult time.”
Victoria-born Valentine began his career in TV in the 80s, hosting the Afternoon Show for three years from 1987, before switching to radio. He then landed the prestigious Afternoons show on 702 ABC Radio Sydney.
Away from the radio, he was an accomplished musician and performed in many bands, and has also authored a number of books. In March 2024, he revealed that he had been diagnosed with oesophageal cancer, and told listeners at the time: “The prognosis is that it’ll be fixed, but it’s a pretty dramatic fix.”
After taking a few months off, he returned to his radio show in August of that year, declaring that he was “in perfect health now”. However, doctors discovered further tumours last year, causing him to step back from the spotlight once again.
The Macmillan Support Line offers confidential support to people living with cancer and their loved ones. If you need to talk, call us on 0808 808 0000.
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