Johnny Young Dies at 79

Johnny Young, a renowned Australian singer, songwriter, and bandleader, has died at the age of 79 after a brief battle with pancreatic cancer. Born Johnny de Jong in Rotterdam, The Netherlands, Young's family migrated to Perth, Western Australia when he was a youngster.

Young had a successful music career, with a national smash hit featuring the double A-sided single 'Step Back' and 'Cara Lyn'. He also wrote the song 'The Real Thing' for Russel Morris and contributed works for other notable artists.

Young's most notable contribution to the Australian entertainment industry was hosting the TV show 'Young Talent Time', which first aired on April 24, 1971. The show ran for 18 seasons until 1988, with a total of 819 episodes, providing a platform for generations of Australian stars to showcase their talents.

## Why it matters The impact of 'Young Talent Time' on the Australian entertainment industry cannot be overstated. The show played a significant role in launching the careers of many Australian artists, and its legacy continues to be felt today. Young's passing marks the end of an era, but his contributions to the industry will be remembered for years to come.

As a natural in front of the cameras, Young's charisma and talent made him a household name in Australia. His ability to nurture and showcase young talent has left a lasting impact on the industry, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of Australian artists.