Veteran television presenter and beloved Play School host John Hamblin dies aged 87 

ABC has announced the death of beloved Play School host John Hamblin who died on Wednesday age 87.

John was a fan favourite presenter on the ABC children’s show for almost 30 years.

John began on Play School in 1970 and appeared in more than 350 episodes of the program.

He was known affectionately as ‘Naughty John’ during his run on the program for his cheeky sense of humour and irreverent nature.

After his retirement from the show in 1999, John returned for a special guest appearance as part of Play School’s 50th Anniversary special in 2016. 

ABC Director Entertainment & Specialist Jennifer Collins said: ‘John was an unforgettable presenter whose comedic timing and wit helped cement Play School as one of Australia’s most cherished children’s programs.’

John began on Play School in 1970 and appeared in more than 350 episodes of the program. Pictured alongside Benita Collings (left)

After his retirement from the show in 1999, John returned for a special guest appearance as part of Play School’s 50th Anniversary special in 2016 (pictured)

He continued: ‘John had a wicked sense of humour and was not afraid of a double-entendre. His presence always managed to keep both our toddler target audience and their parents equally engaged with the show. I would like to extend my condolences to John’s family at this sad time.’

Hamblin was a regular in dramas in the 1970s including Number 96, Class of ’74, The Young Doctors, Case for the Defence and 1982’s Sons and Daughters.

Guest roles included All Saints and Love My Way.

He also played Michael Chamberlain in the 1984 telemovie The Disappearance of Azaria Chamberlain 

After hearing the news, fans flocked to social media to share tributes to the beloved children’s entertainer

Fans flocked to social media to share tributes to the beloved children’s entertainer. 

‘Vale John Hamblin. We loved you, over multiple generations, in our family. Thanks for all your playful good humour,’ one wrote.

‘An iconic part of my childhood and many others’. Thank you John Hamblin. Go well. ❤️’ wrote a second.

‘Thank you John Hamblin for your wonderful wit, love and joy in teaching young children, and for all the double entendres keeping the adults entertained at the same time,’ tweeted another.

John is survived by his children Emma and Myles. 

More to come…