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Heartbreaking Loss: Australian TV Icon Tony Healey Passes Away After Long Battle

BBG News

On Wednesday, well-known Australian actor and singer Tony Healey passed away at a hospital in the Gold Coast, after battling an extended sickness for some time.

Back in the groovy ’60s, I was part of the dynamic duo on Channel Ten’s groundbreaking teen variety show, Kommotion, from 1965 to 1967. I shared the stage with legends like Molly Meldrum and Denise Drysdale during those unforgettable years.

For a while, it was reported that the artist from Melbourne was experiencing poor health, and at that time, he was well into his seventies.

A family friend confirmed the heartbreaking news of Healey’s passing on social media.

‘Vale Tony. Oh, what fun we have had over the years,’ they began.

‘Tony was in hospital with seriously reduced heart and kidney function. 

As I reflect on my journey, I must mention that I graced the screens during the pioneering era of Uptight, Happening, and Kommotion television shows. Furthermore, I played a pivotal role in Melbourne’s burgeoning rock-n-roll scene, those initial, electrifying days that set the stage for what was to come.

‘Deepest sympathy to Tony’s family and friends. As Tony would say “Bestest”.’ 

1965 marked a significant turning point for Healey, as he landed the role of a singer and dancer on the renowned Australian variety show, Kommotion, based in Melbourne.

For a period of two years, he energetically entertained the cameras, captivating a large group of trendy teenagers during the mid-’60s.

During that period, his fame was so immense that he even had a devoted fan club, and thousands of people tuned in weekly just to watch him perform together with Molly Meldrum.

The performance showcased a handsome ensemble lip-syncing popular ’60s tunes, such as tracks by Ike & Tina Turner, among others.

Sadly, it was discontinued in 1967 due to Actors Equity enforcing a rule that prohibited actors from lip-syncing to pre-recorded music on television.

Nevertheless, its impact endures, and in 2020, The Herald Sun recognized it as one of the most outstanding Australian music shows in history.

Despite no longer being active, its influence persists; in 2020, The Herald Sun identified it as one of Australia’s top-tier music programs.

Later on, Healey embarked on a journalistic journey and spent many years penning articles for Go-Set, an early music magazine in the region.

Later on, he gained widespread recognition as a prominent travel journalist in Australia, often chronicling his worldwide adventures.

Many of Tony’s fans went online to share their heartbreak and condolences.

A grieving admirer expressed disbelief and sorrow, stating, ‘I can’t believe he’s gone. My sympathies go out to his family and loved ones residing on the Gold Coast during this difficult time.’

‘I loved him on Kommotion. He was my favourite,’ a second person added.

‘Loved watching Kommotion! Remember him well,’ a third chipped in.

Tragically, Healey’s only son Eamonn died in 2019.

He is survived by his wife of 33 years, Belinda. 

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2025-02-13 13:35

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