Bert Newton dies at 83

EDITOR'S BLOG

I've just heard the sad news that Australian television and showbiz legend and friend-to-all Bert Newton passed away last night, 30 October, 2021, aged 83.

It is no secret he has endured a tough decade with his health but rarely did he let on his anguish or fears to his adoring public.

Rather, every time he was interviewed or captured by cameras, his sparkling smile flashed for all to see and as we all know, his smile was infectious and often tinged with a hint of devilishness. Something that has become his signature throughout a career that spanned more than 70 years.

Funny enough, we (his audience) were always on the same wavelength. His quick wit and engaging manner hooked us on every skit or presentation on stage, TV and even on the big movie screen. Seems there was nothing Bert couldn't do, and do well!

As a friend of Tonight show host Don Lane since I was a child, I was delighted when the two formed a partnership on Don's hit television show in Melbourne, and remember walking in while Bert was getting his make-up done.

He had no idea who I was or why I was there, but struck up a conversation and made me feel as if we were the oldest of friends within 10 minutes of our first meeting. I remember thinking just how charming he was, and have thought the world of him ever since. It's something, many who knew him could tell you, was his way!

We were to meet and speak again many times after that and Bert was one of my great mentors throughout my career as a journalist, entertainment magazine managing editor/proprietor, artist manager and publicist.

I remember also arranging for my friend (and columnist with my magazine Variety Today) singer Frank Ifield, to appear as a judge on New Faces, which Bert hosted.  Bert had asked if I could help him organise Frank's appearance, as he was a long time fan and the delight on his face when we turned up at the studio was a picture of pure joy. So worthwhile!

The father of two (Matthew and Lauren), grandfather to six, and four-time Gold Logie winner, Bert also hosted the Logies 19 times, a reflection to just how well he did it. Always entertaining, witty and audiences had to be ready for anything.

Many people were also treated to his live performances on stage in musicals such as Wicked, Grease and Beauty and the Beast, the latter in which he appeared with now international star Hugh Jackman.

Bert had another talent, and that was at spotting potential stars, such as Hugh Jackman and John Farnham, which he promoted with such enthusiasm at any opportunity.

 This endearing icon (and his beautiful wife Patti) was a friend to so many within the Australian entertainment industry. He will be dearly missed but also, long remembered for he was truly one-of-a-kind and the epitome of what could be described as an all-round entertainer. He set a new standard and proved to be the ultimate performer.

Thank you Bert for a lifetime of wonderful memories and performances. Rest in peace.

A state funeral in Victoria is being organised, a fitting tribute to a man that gave his all to make us laugh, and keep us entertained in a way that only he could.

• SHIRLEY BROUN

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