RIP John Blackman
Australian radio is mourning another huge loss today, with news that John Blackman has died at the age of 76.
In recent years, The Hey Hey it’s Saturday favourite opened up about his harrowing battle with cancer, including a 12 hour operation in 2018 to remove his jaw.
Blackman began working in radio in 1969, joining 2GN Goulburn as an announcer, newsreader, copywriter, salesman and record librarian.
He would later move to 2CA Canberra and then Melbourne’s 3AW, where – as an evening announcer – he worked with the Reverend Alex Kenworthy for several years on the Nightline program.
Stints at 3AK, 2UE and 3UZ (now RSN Racing and Sport), Magic 1278 and Triple M Adelaide would follow.
But it was the pairing of Blackman with Bruce Mansfield on 3AW that would become one of the most successful combinations in Australian radio history, with 3AW Breakfast topping the ratings for 5 consecutive years until 1986.
Outside radio, Blackman was well known for the cheeky character Dickie Knee on Hey Hey.
Smooth FM host and Channel Nine’s Richard Wilkins is among those to pay tribute:
“I had the pleasure of working on Hey Hey, many times over the years, and John was an integral part of the family.”
John Blackman’s legacy is one of laughter, dedication, and a profound impact on Australian media. As we remember his remarkable journey, we celebrate the indelible mark he left on our hearts and the entertainment landscape. He will be deeply missed, but his voice will continue to echo in our memories.
Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with John’s wife Cecile, family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.”
My girlfriend Melissa and I were talking about John Blackman and she told me that she remembers ha ha he said as I o when. Blackers played Dicky Knee And I used to speak to him when he was on 3AK Breakfast. God bless your soul John Blackman and may rest in peace much loved and sorely missed but everyone who loved him and worked for him so those who him and he and those to him and those who called him on radio as well
A brilliant showman and inspiration to many. The 3AW Breakfast show with Blacker’s and Uncle Roy was legendary. Vale John Blackman your what the business is made of.