3AW Legend Philip Brady Dies at 85 after Cancer battle

Australian radio icon Philip Brady has left an indelible mark on the world of broadcasting. After an incredible career spanning nearly seven decades, Brady passed away in Melbourne on Tuesday, aged 85, following a private battle with terminal cancer. His passing came just one week after he announced his retirement from 3AW talkback radio, where he had been a cherished voice for over 30 years.

A Life Dedicated to Entertaining

Born in Melbourne in 1939, Philip Brady grew up with an undeniable passion for show business. By the time he was 18, he had already begun his journey into media, marking the beginning of an extraordinary career that would see him become one of Australia’s most recognisable broadcasting figures.

Brady started in 1958 at Channel Nine as an announcer and quickly became associated with legendary Australian television star Graham Kennedy. He played a vital role in Kennedy’s In Melbourne Tonight, helping to shape a show that remains an integral part of Australian television history.

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The Rise of a Radio Star

Though he made a name for himself on television, it was radio that became his true home. Brady became one of the leading voices on Melbourne talkback radio in the ’60s and ’70s, hosting popular programs on 3AK before making his way to 3AW, where he became a beloved figure for three decades.

His warm and conversational style made him a favorite among listeners. Unlike many in the radio business, Brady believed in entertaining without ego. His former 3AW co-host Simon Owens reflected on this quality, recalling that Brady once told him:

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“It didn’t matter if you were orchestrating the joke, or being the butt of it, it was rewarding to just be a part of it.”

Even in his final days, Brady remained committed to his audience. He kept his cancer diagnosis private, choosing to bring joy rather than sorrow to his fans. As Owens shared:

“He said, ‘I’m not there to make people cry, and I don’t want their pity. It’s their laughter I’m here for. They can cry when I’m gone.'”

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Saying Goodbye to the Airwaves

In January 2025, Brady made the difficult decision to retire. He announced his departure from 3AW, explaining that it was time to let the younger generation take over.

“After 67 years in the business, I’m quitting. I’m very sad to be leaving you, but I have been around forever, and I have been at 3AW since time began,” he told his listeners.

“It’s time to move over and give the younger guys a go. I will be looking out for you.”

His words were filled with the same warmth and wisdom that had endeared him to audiences for decades.

A Legacy Beyond Radio

While radio remained his first love, Brady made his mark across multiple platforms. He was a familiar face on Weekend Sunrise and Good Morning Australia, and in the 1960s, he was an announcer for Channel Nine, producing Bert Newton’s variety show.

He also hosted a string of popular TV quiz shows, including:

• Concentration
• Everybody’s Talking
• Moneymakers
• Junior Moneymakers
• Password
• Get the Message

Later in his career, Brady became a fan favorite on Channel 10’s Good Morning Australia, where he entertained audiences with his regular cooking segment.

Personal Life and Net Worth

Brady was a private person when it came to his family life, but he was known for being deeply devoted to his loved ones and close friends. While he never had children, his radio and television audiences were like family to him.

As of 2025, Philip Brady’s net worth was estimated to be around $5 million, accumulated through his decades in media, television appearances, and long-running tenure at 3AW.

Honoring a True Legend

In 2018, Brady was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia in recognition of his outstanding contribution to broadcast media. It was a fitting honor for a man who had given so much to his craft and to the people of Australia.

Following the news of his passing, tributes poured in from colleagues, listeners, and fans. 3AW station manager Stephen Beers summed up the loss perfectly:

“Phil was a great friend to many, truly loving his work on air and helping so many listeners and colleagues with advice, companionship, and friendship. Phil will be greatly missed by all at 3AW.”

Farewell, Philip Brady

Philip Brady’s life was one dedicated to bringing joy, laughter, and entertainment to generations of Australians. His warmth, humor, and humility will never be forgotten. Whether you remember him from his talkback radio days, television quiz shows, or morning TV appearances, one thing is certain—he made the world a happier place.

Rest in peace, Philip Brady (1939-2025). Thank you for the memories.