Movies

Legendary Australian presenter and actress Candy Devine dies at 85 – as her celebrity chef son Alastair McLeod pays heartfelt tribute

BBG News

As a follower of Candy Devine’s illustrious career and life journey, I am deeply saddened by her passing at the grand age of 85. Born Faye McLeod in Queensland, Candy was a remarkable woman who embodied the spirit of resilience and creativity. Her diverse heritage, encompassing Spanish, Sri Lankan, and Torres Strait Islander roots, was a testament to her unique identity that shone brightly throughout her life.

85-year-old beloved Australian Indigenous radio host and singer, Candy Devine, sadly passed away last Thursday after a prolonged battle with an illness.

Faye McLeod, born in Queensland in 1939, enjoyed a distinguished artistic career that lasted nearly five decades.

Candy, too, was the mom of renowned Australian chef Alastair McLeod. He shared the sad news of her death through social media platforms.

‘Our dear mum has passed away after a life of laughter, music and singing,’ Alastair wrote.

Appreciation goes out to you, journalists, for broadcasting her touching love tale. She had a deep curiosity about our personal lives and genuinely enjoyed providing constructive comments whenever she spotted me on television.

Candy was born in Cairns and had a diverse heritage that included Spanish, Sri Lankan, and Torres Strait Islander roots. 

She began her incredible career in the late 1960s as an actress, appearing in episodes of the iconic Australian children’s show Skippy the Bush Kangaroo. 

Throughout her career, she also made guest appearances on the 1970s series The Ernie Sigley Show. 

One notable achievement was providing the voice for the character Vera in the 1989 Hollywood-produced animated movie, “All Dogs Go to Heaven.

In the late 1960s, Candy moved to Northern Ireland and started a flourishing broadcasting career, becoming a beloved host on the commercial radio station known as Downtown Radio.

1970 saw her tying the knot with renowned talent agent Donald McLeod. Together, they welcomed four kids, including the famed Channel Ten culinary star, Alastair McLeod.

In appreciation for her significant work in the realm of live entertainment, Candy received the designation as a Member of the British Empire back in 2014.

The energetic presenter returned to Queensland in 2013 and passed away last week.

She outlived her husband, Donald, who died in 2012. 

Candy is survived by her four children.

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2024-11-06 07:49

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