Radio Legend John Laws Honoured with Heartfelt State Funeral
Today, Sydney bid farewell to one of Australia’s most iconic broadcasters, John Laws, in a moving state funeral held at St Andrew’s Cathedral. Known affectionately as the nation’s “Golden Tonsils,” Laws passed away on November 9 at the age of 90, leaving behind a legacy that shaped Australian radio for more than seven decades. Hundreds of mourners gathered in the cathedral, from family and friends to politicians, fellow broadcasters, and admirers, all coming together to celebrate a life that touched so many.
The service was marked by warmth, laughter, and heartfelt tributes, reflecting the kindness Laws famously encouraged in his listeners. His long-time friend Paul Warren, who shared a 55-year friendship with Laws, delivered the first eulogy. He spoke fondly of the broadcaster’s multifaceted life, highlighting his talents beyond radio — from songwriting and singing to appearing in films and even promoting music. “He entertained, he challenged, he inspired, and he left a mark that will never fade,” Warren said, signing off in Laws’ signature words: “You be kind to each other.”
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Russell Crowe, Laws’ neighbour and good friend for more than two decades, delivered a second eulogy that added a touch of irreverent humor. Crowe recalled how Laws had once gifted his son a bottle of bourbon at his first birthday party, reflecting the mischievous spirit that endeared him to so many. Crowe also celebrated Laws’ guiding mantra, explaining, “Kindness is strength. Acts of kindness are proof of intelligence. John Laws, my neighbour, my mischievous mate, my good friend, was a very kind man.”
The cathedral was filled with familiar faces, including former Prime Minister John Howard, NSW Premier Chris Minns, former Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce, broadcaster Ben Fordham, television personality Richard Wilkins, and sporting legend Dawn Fraser. Many of Laws’ long-time listeners also attended, paying respects to a man whose voice had become a constant presence in their lives.
Born Richard John Sinclair Laws on August 8, 1935, he began his radio career in 1953 at 3BO in Bendigo, after a brief stint as a teenage jackaroo. Over the decades, Laws became synonymous with talkback radio, working across major Sydney stations including 2UE, 2UW, and 2GB. He spent the majority of his career with 2UE and 2SM before retiring in November 2024, just a year before his passing. At his peak, his shows attracted over two million listeners, and he famously interviewed sixteen prime ministers, shaping public opinion and political discourse along the way.
Musical tributes added to the heartfelt ceremony. Country music legend John Williamson performed his classic “True Blue,” fulfilling a long-standing promise to Laws. The golden microphone, emblematic of Laws’ decades-long influence, was placed on his coffin, symbolizing the voice that had connected generations of Australians.
As the service concluded, the message that defined John Laws’ life echoed through the cathedral: “Be kind to each other.” A broadcaster, a friend, a mentor, and a man of remarkable talent, John Laws will be remembered not just for his voice, but for the kindness, wit, and generosity he shared with the world.
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