Australian music legend Johnny Young has died at the age of 79, his family have revealed.
He was best known for his role as host of Young Talent Time, which launched the careers of stars like Tina Arena and Dannii Minogue.
In a statement published by The Guardian on Friday morning, it was revealed by his family that he suffered a “very brief battle” with pancreatic cancer.
“Johnny was the creator, host and producer of the much loved television show Young Talent Time,” it read.
“He wrote and produced many iconic hit songs including The Real Thing and Smily.
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“Johnny leaves behind his wife Marisha, sister Cornelia, daughters Anna and Fleur, son Craig (dec.), seven grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.
“The family respectfully asks for privacy during this difficult time.
Details of a memorial service will be announced soon.”
The songwriter was born in the Netherlands in 1947 before moving to Australia as a child and launching a pop career.
He was inducted into the TV Week Logies Hall of Fame and the ARIA Hall of Fame during his lengthy career.
More to come...
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