Johnny Young, Creator of Young Talent Time, Dies at 79
Johnny Young, the Australian singer, songwriter, and television host who created and hosted the variety show Young Talent Time, has died at 79 following a brief battle with pancreatic cancer, his family confirmed. The statement from his family highlighted his role as the show’s creator, host, and producer, as well as his contributions to Australian music through hits like The Real Thing and Smiley.
The Legacy of Young Talent Time
Running from 1971 to 1988, Young Talent Time became a cornerstone of Australian entertainment, launching the careers of stars such as Tina Arena, Dannii Minogue, and Debra Byrne. Each episode concluded with a singalong of The Beatles’ All My Loving, a tradition that became synonymous with Young’s hosting. Tina Arena, who began her career on the show, described him as “like a father” and credited him with shaping her career. “He’s a dear man and I’ve never hidden the fact that he’s the reason I’m still here 30 years later,” she said in 2010, when Young was inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame.
Tributes from Australian Music Icons
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese paid tribute to Young, calling him “the genial and generous host of Young Talent Time, the launchpad for an incredible new generation of entertainers.” Russell Morris, singer of The Real Thing, called Young “one of the most intelligent guys I’ve ever met,” noting his ability to transform challenges into success. Singer Karen Knowles, who worked on the show from 1975 to 1980, described Young as an “icon of the industry” who provided “space for young artists to grow.”
A Career Spanning Music and Television
Before Young Talent Time, Young was a teen idol in the 1960s, achieving a number-one hit with Step Back. He hosted The Go!! Show in the 1960s, winning a Logie for Best Teenage Personality in 1967. His songwriting career included collaborations with Russell Morris and Ronnie Burns, with The Real Thing reportedly being the most expensive single ever recorded in Australia at the time. Young also faced challenges, including a 1993 legal ordeal in the Philippines and financial struggles that led to the sale of his family home to fund the Young Talent Time studio.
Personal Life and Family
Young is survived by his wife, Marisha, daughters Anna and Fleur, sister Cornelia, seven grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. His son, Craig, died in 2014 from pancreatic cancer. The family requested privacy as they grieve, with details of a memorial service to be announced.
FAQ: Understanding Johnny Young’s Impact
What was Johnny Young’s most significant contribution to Australian music?
Young’s creation of Young Talent Time is widely regarded as his most impactful work. The show nurtured generations of Australian performers and became a cultural touchstone, with its signature singalong of All My Loving.
How did Young influence contemporary artists?
Artists like Tina Arena and Russell Morris credited Young with providing opportunities and mentorship. His emphasis on supporting emerging talent helped shape the careers of icons such as Dannii Minogue and Debra Byrne.
What was the public’s reaction to his passing?
Tributes poured in from across the industry, with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese highlighting Young’s role in “giving Australia the gift of joy.” Fans and colleagues remembered his generosity and the lasting legacy of his work.
Did You Know?
Young’s early career included a brief stint in London, where he lived with Barry Gibb of the Bee Gees. His song The Real Thing was initially written for Russell Morris but became a landmark in Australian music history.
For more on the history of Young Talent Time, visit the ARIA Hall of Fame website. Learn about the show’s impact on Australian pop culture through The Guardian’s coverage.
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