Veteran television presenter and beloved Play School host John Hamblin dies aged 87
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Veteran TV host and beloved Play School presenter John Hamblin dies aged 87
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Veteran TV host and beloved Play School presenter John Hamblin has died aged 87.
The ABC paid tribute to Hamblin’s “comedic timing and humor” in a statement Wednesday night, saying he “helped build Play School into one of Australia’s best-loved children’s programmes.”
Hamblin began his time on the iconic kids show in the 1970s and quickly became a fan favorite. He would go on to star in more than 350 episodes of the program, over a period of 30 years.
Veteran TV host and beloved Play School presenter John Hamblin (pictured) has died aged 87.
He was fondly known as ‘Naughty John’ during his run on the program due to his sassy sense of humor and irreverent nature.
Following his retirement from the show in 1999, Hamblin returned for a special guest appearance as part of Play School’s 50th Anniversary special in 2016.
“John was an unforgettable host whose comedic timing and humor helped Play School create one of Australia’s most cherished children’s programs,” ABC Entertainment & Specialist Director Jennifer Collins said in a statement.
‘John had a bad sense of humor and was not afraid of ambiguity. His presence always managed to keep both our toddler audience and their parents equally involved in the show.
“I’d like to extend my condolences to John’s family at this sad time.”
The ABC paid tribute to John’s “comedic timing and humor” in a statement Wednesday night, saying he has “helped Play School become one of Australia’s most cherished children’s programs.” Pictured next to Benita Collings (left)
John started his time on the iconic kids show in the 1970s and quickly became a fan favorite. He would go on to star in more than 350 episodes of the program, over a period of 30 years. Pictured: John in Play School’s 50th Birthday Special in 2016
Aside from his role in Play School, Hamblin was also an accomplished actor.
was a fixture in dramas in the 1970s, including Number 96, Class of ’74, The Young Doctors, Case for the Defense and 1982’s Sons and Daughters.
Guest stars included All Saints and Love My Way.
He also played Michael Chamberlain in the 1984 telefilm The Disappearance of Azaria Chamberlain
He was fondly known as ‘Naughty John’ during his run on the program due to his sassy sense of humor and irreverent nature
Fans of the late TV host have taken to social media to mourn his passing.
“One of the best Play School presenters,” one wrote on Facebook.
Vale John Hamblin. We loved you, for several generations, in our family. Thanks for all your playful humor,” a second posted to Twitter.
‘An iconic part of my childhood and many others’. Thank you John Hamblin. Well done. ❤️’ added a third.
Fans took to their social media accounts to pay tribute to the beloved children’s entertainer
“Thank you John Hamblin for your wonderful humor, love and fun teaching young children, and for all the ambiguities in keeping the adults busy at the same time,” commented another.
“This breaks my heart a little. John Hamblin loomed up in my youth,” said another.
John is survived by his children Emma and Myles.