After nearly fifty years on-air in South Australia and two decades, from the radio station’s inception, on Cruise 1323, John Dean is stepping back from his breakfast show, which ran from 7am till midday weekdays, but not from radio altogether.

In the 70s, as “Lean Dean”, he gained fame as the voice-over guy on Wheel of Fortune for a year and a half, handing the role to John Deeks after a fall at home. John also made a memorable first impression on Alice Cooper, greeting him at the Adelaide airport by leaping out of a coffin dressed as Dracula. Also, after being mistaken for actor Alan Rickman, John charmed the bar staff with a fake English accent and securing free drinks in the process.

On leaving Cruise breakfast John said:

“Most people retire at 65 – I’ve been fortunate to do something I love and to still be on air at almost 75. It’s been incredible to see Cruise evolve from when it first launched in 2005 to where it is today, and I’ve been lucky to share that journey with such a loyal audience.”

This decision is part of a broader change in direction for Cruise 1323 and for the GOLD Network, with Sue Carter, the network’s Head of Content saying:

“John has made an extraordinary contribution to Cruise and to radio in Adelaide. His warmth, professionalism, and dedication to his audience have been second to none.

We thank him sincerely for his years of service and wish him the very best in the future , he is an immense talent.”

Dean will continue with Cruise, filling in when needed, with his last day Friday March 7. Cruise will announce Dean’s replacement in due course.