Johnny Young has passed away at 79 following a brief battle with pancreatic cancer. The beloved Australian entertainer created, hosted and produced “Young Talent Time.” His passing has prompted emotional tributes from Tina Arena, Dannii Minogue and Kylie Minogue. Each star has a personal connection to the television show that helped shape Australian entertainment.
Tina Arena Remembers Johnny Young as a Mentor
According to ABC News, Arena was among those to pay tribute after the news emerged. The singer said she was “lost for words” while reflecting on the loss.
“I’m struggling to find the words today to express the profound loss of a man who allowed, and equally encouraged, me to find my voice!” Arena wrote on social media.
The connection between Tina Arena and Johnny Young stretched back to her years on “Young Talent Time.” Arena was one of the young performers who gained national exposure through the program. At Young’s 2010 ARIA Hall of Fame induction, she described him as “like a father.” She credited him with having faith in her abilities.
Arena also performed “Here Comes The Star” during the 2010 ceremony. The moment reflected the close professional relationship they had built over the years. Her latest tribute also highlighted the legacy Young leaves behind.
“Just know that you leave behind a beautiful legacy that we will continue to uphold,” Arena wrote.
Dannii and Kylie Minogue Honor Their “Young Talent Time” Connection
Dannii Minogue also shared an emotional tribute on Instagram. She said Johnny Young “holds a place in so many hearts” and that her heart was broken by the news.
For the “All I Wanna Do” singer, the connection was deeply personal. Minogue said, “For me, this is where my career started.” She also remembered the show’s Saturday-night place in Australian homes.
The singer recalled “17 years of colour, choreography, sequins, music and smiles” on Saturday nights. She sent her thoughts to Young’s family and his wider “Young Talent Time” family.
Kylie Minogue also remembered the program and its lasting place in her family’s memories. In a comment on her sister’s Instagram tribute, she wrote that “Young Talent Time” was “embedded into all our hearts and memories.”
The “Can’t Get You Out of My Head” singer also reflected on her sister’s experience. Kylie Minogue said those were “such formative years” for her sister Dannii and her team. She added that the group became like family to her sister.
Johnny Young Created a Launchpad for Australian Stars
As reported by The Conversation, Young’s career extended far beyond television. He began in music and scored an Australian number-one hit with “Step Back.” The song was written by George Young and Stevie Wright of the Easybeats.
Johnny Young later developed his own skills as a songwriter. The Conversation noted that Barry Gibb helped guide him during his early career. He went on to write “The Real Thing,” which became a major hit for Russell Morris.
He also wrote “Smiley” for Ronnie Burns. The song addressed Normie Rowe’s military service during the Vietnam War.
Johnny Young’s television career was equally significant. Before “Young Talent Time,” Johnny Young hosted “The Go!! Show” in the 1960s. He also worked as a radio announcer and television producer.
“Young Talent Time” debuted in 1971. According to ABC News, the show continued until 1988. It became a major platform for young Australian performers.
Among those performers were Tina Arena and Dannii Minogue. The program helped introduce their talents to a national audience. Its influence continued long after its final episode.
The program also became known for its closing singalong. Each episode ended with a performance of The Beatles’ “All My Loving.” That tradition became part of the show’s enduring identity.
The Legacy Lives On
ABC News reported that Johnny Young was inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame in 2010. At the time, he described his career as “amazingly lucky and fulfilling.”
Tributes have also come from Australian public figures and fellow musicians. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said Johnny Young gave Australia “the gift of joy.” He praised the entertainer for creating a launchpad for a new generation of performers.
According to The Conversation, Johnny Young made a major impact on Australian music and television. His work connected music, broadcasting and youth entertainment.
Johnny Young leaves behind his wife Marisha, sister Cornelia, daughters Anna and Fleur, seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
For the performers he supported, his influence remains personal. For generations of viewers, Johnny Young’s work remains part of Australian television history. It is a reminder of the lasting impact entertainers can have, much like Lea Thompson’s touching tribute to Matthew Perry.
