Legendary newsreader dies, aged 89

Legendary Sydney newsreader Brian 'Hendo' Henderson has died aged 89 after fighting a long battle with various cancers, including throat cancer and kidney cancer.

Henderson, who was born in New Zealand, was Australia's longest serving newsreader, reading the Sydney news for Channel Nine from January 1957 until his retirement in late November 2002.

He also won a Gold Logie in 1968 for being the Most Popular Personality on Australian television and hosted the popular live music television show Bandstand, which ran from 1958-1972. In 2019, TV Week listed Bandstand at #101 in its list of the 101 greatest Australian television programs of all time. The magazine cited Brian Henderson as a major reason as to why the program became a 'Saturday staple'.

In 2009, Henderson was named as a Member of the Order of Australia for "service as a pioneer in the television news and entertainment sectors, and as a mentor to aspiring and established presenters, readers and journalists."

In April 2013 Henderson received a second Gold Logie when he was inducted into the Hall of Fame.

Henderson is survive by his wife Mardi, who he was married to for 48 years.

Did you used to watch Bandstand? Who was your favourite performer that you discovered through watching the show?

3 comments

RIP Brian Henderson.   I watched Bandstand ... and Six O'clock Rock with JOK, long gone :(.    

Favourite performer/s?  Ummmh, there were so many, but if pushed to name one, probably The Delltones.

RIP Hendo. Always enjoyed watching him. Such a professional.

Just heard about his passing. He always seemed like such a gentleman. Always watched Bandstand on Saturday arvo.  At last he is at peace after so many health issues. RIP.

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RIP Brian Henderson

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