Australia has lost one of its most enduring and beloved media personalities. Philip Brady passed away at the age of 87 after a remarkable 67-year career in the industry. Known for his wit, charm, and dedication to his craft, Brady’s death has left a void in the hearts of many Australians, particularly those in Melbourne where he was a household name.
Philip Brady’s career spanned almost seven decades, during which he became a staple of local radio and television. His recent departure from his top-rating Melbourne radio show on 3AW just days before his death came as a surprise to many.
Entertainment editor Peter Ford disclosed that Brady was aware of his impending death but chose to keep this private, not wanting to distress his fans, especially the older ones who had grown to love him over the years.
Brady’s decision to retire without publicising his health struggles was a testament to his character. He was a man who thought of others, even in his final days. Ford shared that Brady had called him to reveal his condition, expressing a desire to handle his affairs discreetly.
‘Philip rang me on December 2 and told me he was dying and had a very short amount of time to live, but he did not want anybody to know—he wanted to do this privately. And I said, ‘Why, Philip?’ You know, because he did not want his older fans to be distressed and upset,’ Ford recalled.
True to his nature, Brady was concerned about the impact his death would have on his fans and did not want them to ‘spend money on flowers,’ reflecting his humble and considerate personality.
His faith played a significant role in his life, and as a devout Catholic, he took steps to ensure everything was in order before his passing. From meeting with his bank manager and solicitor to organising his funeral with his priest, Brady was meticulous in his preparations.
Ford also shared that one of Brady’s final concerns was finding a loving home for his dog, which he successfully did, bringing him peace in his last days.
Brady’s career was nothing short of legendary. He appeared in 3000 episodes of In Melbourne Tonight alongside Graham Kennedy, and his presence on the screen and airwaves became a comforting and familiar one to generations of Australians.
He was the last of the original TV stars still actively working in the industry, outlasting his contemporaries and friends such as Don Lane, Graham Kennedy, and Bert Newton.
‘It really is the end of an era because Philip was the last of the old original brigade of TV stars still working… Philip was still earning a wage until last week,’ said Ford.
Despite being the subject of their jokes, Brady’s longevity in the industry proved his resilience and passion for his work. He was a gentleman of the media, respected and admired by colleagues and audiences alike. In his final days, he was overwhelmed with messages of love and tributes, both publicly and privately, a testament to the impact he had on the lives of so many.
Even in the hospital, his popularity was evident as he received a staggering ‘22 sets of visitors in one afternoon,’ a clear indication of the affection and esteem in which he was held.
While his passing is a tragedy, the legacy Philip Brady leaves behind is one of laughter, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to entertaining Australia.
As we reflect on the life and career of Philip Brady, we invite our readers to share their memories and tributes to this icon. What are your favourite moments from his storied career? Join the YourLifeChoices community in celebrating the life of a man who brought joy to so many and whose contributions to local media will never be forgotten.
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Why, exactly, is this elderly – nay old – gentleman’s passing a tragedy? Not every death is a tragedy given its inevitability. Certainly it may be a tragedy for his family, but at the age of 87 years it could hardly have been a great surprise.
My point is that the word tragedy is woefully overused and I do wish “journalists”, who in my estimation ought to be wordsmiths of a high order, would tone down the rhetoric – we get enough of that from politicians and oligarchs.
This is indeed a sad event, for his fans and listeners. Many, especially, lonely or isolated individuals would have seen him as a comforting presence, a constant in their lives. That constant is now gone.
To many that would be a “ tragedy”.
I note the comments of Margaret, I cannot agree with her. It is not a personal tragedy to me, but for his long term fans, his friends, his family it is a tragedy.
I agree with Nargaret. The overuse of words like tragedy and shocking and like really thank you very much. You’ve been very very kind and lovely and also Bradley texted to say that listening to the ridiculous stage of attack which thankfully didn’t happen. Bradley thank you very much for your text.
Sorry – I had the radio on while I was dictating and the iPad picked up the announcer.
Oops. Anyway, the more relevant use of certain words would give more impact to their meaning in truly tragic or shocking matters. At 87 he was ready to go and while his contributions were greatly appreciated, his death at that age is sad, as are all deaths, but hardly a tragedy.