At his peak, the Australian talkback legend John Laws was one of the highest-paid radio broadcasters in the world. Over his more than six-decade career, it seemed at times that everything he touched turned to gold. He was dubbed the “Golden Tonsils” by his fans for his rich, melodious timbre. Everything from his golden microphone and chunky golden rings to his skyrocketing ratings and the advertising revenue he generated glowed.
Laws, who has died aged 90, began his career in regional Victoria as an 18-year-old and grew to inspire a huge and devoted audience, but also condemnation for his role in the “cash-for-comment” scandal and other controversies. To his loyal listeners, Laws was a voice who heard their concerns and spoke up for them. He became immensely influential, securing the friendship of politicians and stars.
