Legendary Australian singer and Blue Heelers star Bobby Bright dies at 80 after devastating diagnosis

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80-year-old former Australian singer-turned-actor Bobby Bright passed away in Melbourne, three years following a diagnosis of lung cancer. This renowned individual is no longer among us.

As a child who was born in England, I embarked on a remarkable journey when I relocated Down Under at the tender age of nine. Over the subsequent five decades, my career in both music and cinema flourished, offering me an unforgettable ride that I am proud to have been a part of.

Known for his decades-long musical collaboration with Laurie Allen, starting from 1964 when they teamed up to create the acclaimed duo Bobby and Laurie.

They frequently appeared on Australian television, becoming a common sight, especially on the variety show The Go!! Show.

The first album they released, titled “I Belong with You,” started their shared musical adventure through Go!! Records based in Melbourne.

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The teaming up of the duo with The Rondells, which included Wayne Duncan on bass and Gary Young on drums (who later gained fame as a member of Daddy Cool), resulted in chart-topping songs that propelled them to popular music success.

Back in 1966, I was absolutely ecstatic when the cover of Roger Miller’s ‘Hitch Hiker’ by my all-time favorite band topped the charts down under in Australia! That moment solidified their legendary status in the annals of music history and remains a cherished memory for me as a devoted fan.

They also co-hosted a popular ABC musical variety show in 1966 called Dig We Must. 

In addition to his musical achievements, Bobby Bright pursued occasional acting roles.

In 1973, he made a significant appearance in the iconic police drama on Channel Seven, titled Homicide, and played the character of The Doctor in the live Australian production of ‘Tommy’.

In the course of events, Bobby established himself as a consistent presence in Australian cinema and broadcasting, sharing screen time with Lisa McCune on Blue Heelers and the late international sensation Aaliyah in the film Queen of the Damned, which was produced in Melbourne.

In the last acting gig he took on, Bobby appeared in a 2015 short film titled “Lazy Boy.” This production also featured Steven Carroll, who is well-known for his role in Neighbours.

He also ventured into radio, serving as a DJ on Melbourne’s 3XY.

Heartbroken fans took to social media to pay tribute to Bobby. 

‘Very sad news. A lovely man,’ one person wrote.

‘Recorded some great music,’ a second added. 

Following a career that spanned decades, Bobby continued to perform in Melbourne. 

As a dedicated performer who never hung up my hat, I captivated audiences all over Australia with my extraordinary shows, right up until just before I took my final bow.

In 2002, his duet partner, Laurie Allen, sadly passed away. The two of them left an indelible mark on the Australian music and entertainment scene with their remarkable contributions.

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2025-07-22 04:48