Simon Townsend, Beloved Australian Children’s TV Icon, Passes Away at 79
Simon Townsend, an Australian journalist and television personality, died at the age of 79. The death of Townsend has left an important gap in children’s entertainment.
Townsend, who has been diagnosed with a severe kind of cancer, died on Tuesday. The news was confirmed by the family in an eye-catching statement, saying that in his final days, he was surrounded by loved ones like journalists, writers, actors, political activists, and Italians. “The conversation to the last was loud, passionate, and full of laughs,” they told me.
Health challenges
Townsend dealt with serious health issues throughout his life, including three strokes. In August 2005, he voiced concern that the next stroke could be fatal.
Last Days and Death
Simon Townsend died on January 14, 2025, aged 79, after a short battle with a severe kind
of cancer. In his last days, he was surrounded by family and a broad range of friends, a reflection of the warped work of his life.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Simon Townsend, born November 27, 1945, began his career in journalism in Australia and made a lasting image in the Australian media industry. His early life was marked by a strong dedication to social justice, which later defined his professional pursuits.
Conscientious Objection to the Vietnam War
In the mid-1960s, while living in Woy Woy and working as a journalist for a community newspaper, Townsend became a conscientious objector to the Vietnam War. His anti-conscription stance gained national prominence, leading to his imprisonment for a month in Long Bay Gaol and a subsequent month in an army prison in 1968.
Transition to Television
The natural ability to connect with people was what helped him move from print journalism to television. His magnetic personality and commitment to narrative laid the groundwork for his eventual success on television.
Creation of ‘Wonder World’
In 1979, Townsend started “Simon Townsend‘s Wonder World!” on Channel Ten, along with his bloodhound mascot, Woodrow. The show was important, with magazine-style sections on topics such as mental health, bullying, grief, social justice, and war. It ran until 1987, aired about 2,000 episodes, and received five Logie Awards.
Impact on Australian Children’s Television
“Wonder World” was known for its boundary-pushing mentality, with Townsend frequently clashing with Australian children’s television regulators over the show’s unique approach. The program’s objective was clear: never speak down to youngsters.
Advocacy for Kids’ Programming
Townsend’s dedication to outstanding children’s programming went beyond “Wonder World.” He was a strong supporter of programs that valued and engaged young audiences, impacting the standards of children’s television in Australia.
Personal Life and Family
Townsend had two children with his wife, Rosanna (1950-2003), actress Nadia Townsend and Michael Townsend. He also had a second daughter, Lisbeth Kennelly, and five grandkids. After Rosanna’s death, his partner was Kerrie Gleeson, who died in 2015.
Conclusion
Simon Townsend’s life displays an unrelenting commitment to journalism, children’s entertainment, and social justice. His answer to the media had evolved on that count and his enthusiasm to connect with teenagers was an important legacy left to the Australian media.
