Australian broadcasting industry in mourning after radio legend dies following long cancer battle

By JIMMY BRIGGS FOR DAILY MAIL AUSTRALIA

Published: 00:38 BST, 20 May 2025 | Updated: 00:39 BST, 20 May 2025

Australia’s radio industry is mourning the loss of John Carroll, a beloved Sydney-based presenter known for his influential roles at Triple M and 2Day FM.

The legendary DJ was one of the most esteemed music presenters in the industry and interviewed many A-List celebrities including Joni Mitchell and Eric Clapton across his long career.

He was long rumoured to be the presenter who originally whispered the Triple M station call used on commercials. 

His death came shortly after he retired from the industry after four years as a talkback host at NSW’s Super Radio Network.

Carroll died earlier this month in Thailand, following a long battle with cancer and several rounds of chemotherapy.

His passing was confirmed on social media in a heartbreaking statement by Radio Today.

Australia’s radio industry is mourning the loss of John Carroll, a beloved Sydney-based presenter known for his influential roles at Triple M and 2Day FM

‘Mourning the loss of industry giant John Carroll. A successful announcer who worked at stations including 2SM, Triple M Sydney and 2DayFM,’ they began.

‘He was admired for his laid-back approach to radio, having met and interviewed music legends.

‘He and his voice were in the very top echelon.’

Many of Carroll’s former colleagues were quick to pay tribute to him.

‘I am truly saddened by this loss of my great friend,’ wrote 2SM Program Director Barry Chapman.

‘He was a great jock with a wonderful voice. Never afraid to say what he thought… I loved it!’

Music journalist Debbie Kruger joined the chorus, with: ‘Through the years, he battled one health issue after another… his spirit was undiminished. RIP my wonderful friend.’ 

Carroll’s girlfriend shared a heartbreaking update to social media on May 2 revealing that he was feeling ‘tired’ and had chosen to stop his chemotherapy.

The legendary DJ was one of the most esteemed music presenters in the industry and across his long career interviewed many A-List celebrities including Joni Mitchell and Eric Clapton. Pictured with music journalist Debbie Kruger

‘We took John to the hospital on Monday the 28th [of April]. The doctor asked John if he wanted to continue with treatment… He doesn’t want to,’ she began.

‘John can’t stand the pain from chemo. He doesn’t want to stay in the hospital… wants to die at home. 

‘That’s John’s goal. John has no strength, he is very weak. He said he knew he could not do it. 

On the morning of May 2nd, John was feeling tired and delirious.’

Carroll leaves behind a legacy of excellence in broadcasting. 

He is survived by his girlfriend.

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Australian broadcasting industry in mourning after radio legend dies following long cancer battle

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