Legendary TV and radio host Ron Casey, has died aged 89.
One of the country’s most controversial broadcasters, his broadcast career spanned 70 years.
Well known on Wide World of Sports alongside co-presenter Frank Hyde, Ron also hosted talkback programs on radio stations 2GB, 2SM and 2KY.
Ron began his radio career with 2KY in 1948 and for many years worked as a sports reporter at the Daily Mirror.
Often a provocative figure, in the 80’s he openly opposed an increase in Asian immigration to Australia, all the while denying he was racist.
He was also involved in one of television’s most infamous moments when, as a guest on the Midday Show with Ray Martin, he came to blows with singer Normie Rowe during a live on-air debate on whether or not Australia should become a republic.
Ron Casey was awarded to OAM for services to Television and Sport on Australia Day, 1988
Richard Sleeman wrote the story of Ron Casey’s life and published Confessions of a Larrikin in 1989.
Ron passed away at Sydney’s Royal North Shore Hospital.
A celebration of the life of Ron Casey will be held at Mosman RSL, Monday from 2:30pm.