Iconic Australian Children’s Show Host Passes Away After Health Struggle

On Tuesday morning, the well-regarded Australian television personality, Marilyn Mayo, who had a long and successful career, passed away.

Last year, the actress celebrated her 80th birthday, and for many Australian kids of a certain age, she is fondly remembered as the host of “The Super Flying Fun Show” on Nine Network, airing from 1970 to 1979.

Additionally, she made an appearance on the iconic television series A Country Practice (set in the 80s) and played a significant part in the Channel 10 daytime soap opera Holiday Island during the same decade.

On Tuesday, it was announced on social media, with Craig Bennett – a friend of the deceased legend – speaking on behalf of Mayo’s family.

A cherished friend and well-loved Australian entertainment figure has passed away, according to the statement made by Bennett, a seasoned showbiz journalist, on his Facebook page.

He continued: ‘At 7am Marilyn Mayo passed away.

‘In 2020 she suffered a devastating brain haemorrhage from which she miraculously battled back.’

In other places, Bennett recalled the entertainment legend as a delightful wit, incredibly intelligent, and an absolute joy to be around.

He finished his tribute by saying, “I was requested to announce the sad news that Marilyn Monroe has passed away, a fact made known to me by her loving daughters Katrina Medina and Lillian Lyon.

‘Now, she has broken free from being confined to a wheelchair or bed. Despite the damage inflicted by the stroke, she maintained a positive attitude, consistently greeted people with a warm smile, and kept her witty sense of humor until the very end.’

‘Vale to a darling soul, and RIP Miss Marilyn.’ 

Over the course of many years on The Flying Fun Show, Mayo became affectionately known as ‘Miss Marilyn’. However, her journey began when she started her career as a professional dancer.

She appeared as a performer on variety programs like The Bobby Limb Show (1959-1964).

She also appeared on The Barry Croker Show (1966-1967) and Bandstand (1958-1972).

Additionally, Mayo appeared as a regular performer on the lengthy television program titled “The Sound of Music,” which should not be confused with the renowned stage musical.

From 1970 to 1979 she starred in The Super Flying Fun Show, which turned her into a household name.

The live-aired morning program showcased various skits, animated segments, a puppet of an emu, and a human actor portraying a lifesize chicken character known as “Wing Ding.

Besides being a frequent guest on the talk show “Beauty and the Beast”, Mayo has also acted as an actress in the brief-running soap opera “Holiday Island”.

Toward the end of her professional journey, she appeared as a recurring character in shows like Home and Away, the initial Heartbreak High, E Street, and Water Rats.

She retired in 2000.

In the year 2020, Mayo endured a tragic stroke. Following three months of medical attention in the hospital, her care was transitioned to a nursing home, where further therapeutic sessions were initiated.

In an interview with Woman’s Day last March she shared details of her terrible health ordeal.

‘Almost four years on, I’m learning to walk but it’s a slow, sometimes frustrating process.

Even amidst the challenges, I can’t help but maintain a grin on my face. After all, there are countless others who are going through tougher times. Throughout my journey, I’ve made it a point to stay positive, come rain or shine. My personal motto in this glamorous world has been to smile unwaveringly, no matter the circumstances.

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2025-02-18 07:49

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