Beloved retired radio host Graeme Gilbert has died aged 76.
The late-night talkback host, who was best known for fronting Talk Tonight on the 2SM Super Radio Network, died following an ongoing battle with acute leukaemia.
Gilbert hosted the show for over 20 years from 2000 until his retirement in 2023.
Super Radio Network released a statement announcing the “deeply loved” broadcaster’s death.
“Graeme was deeply loved by his audience across the Super Radio Network, and that affection was mutual,” the statement read.
“He genuinely adored his listeners and had a lifelong passion for the radio industry. He truly loved what he did behind the microphone.
“He was heard across every station in the Super Radio Network, bringing his talk program to audiences right across Australia.”
“Through our Newcastle station, 2HD, Graeme consistently delivered outstanding survey results,” the statement continued.
“A reflection not only of his talent, but of the genuine connection and trust he built with listeners over many years.”
Gilbert began his radio career at 2HD in Newcastle.
As the voice of Talk Tonight for 23 years, he was broadcast from Sydney across 30 stations throughout regional NSW and Queensland.
The veteran radio host won a B&T Award for Best News Presenter and a Raward – now known as the Australian Commercial Radio Awards – for Best Current Affairs Commentator.
Speaking about his broadcasting career, he once said: “I love it, it’s never a chore turning up for this job!”
Listeners of Gilbert’s late-night show will remember he was the victim of a persistent radio prank.
In May 2006, Talk Tonight received numerous calls incorrectly answering “India” to the trivia question “Who is the Premier of Tasmania?”.
While the correct answer was Paul Lennon, the joke continued for years with callers randomly calling in to say “India” on air.
Gilbert retired from radio in 2023 and has been in aged care since last October.
Liberal MP for Willoughby, NSW Tim James paid tribute to the veteran retired broadcaster.
“Vale Graeme Gilbert – a true radio icon. And a fantastic bloke who I had the pleasure of working with,” he wrote on X.
“A proud Australian and gentleman. May God rest his soul.”