Beloved Australian children's TV host dies at 79

Australian journalist and television icon Simon Townsend has died aged 79, his family confirmed.

Townsend, who was recently diagnosed with an aggressive cancer, passed away on Tuesday.

"Simon spent his final days surrounded by family and friends, with conversations loud, passionate, and full of laughter," they shared.

Simon Townsend (centre) with his Wonder World castmates.

Wonder World ran from 1979 to 1987, earning five Logies and cementing Townsend - and his loyal bloodhound Woodrow - as Australian TV icons.

Wonder World dominated afternoons five days a week, airing nearly 2,000 episodes between 1979 and 1987.

Reflecting on the show’s success, Townsend once shared, "We travelled across Australia and internationally—Hawaii, India, Bali, Hong Kong. The hallmark was always humour and popular music."

In 1993, Townsend shifted gears to host TVTV on the ABC, interviewing celebrities about their TV projects. He reunited with Wonder World star Edith Bliss and worked alongside musician James Valentine for three years.

Townsend faced significant health challenges in his later years, enduring five strokes.

Townsend leaves behind his three children - Nadia, Michael, and Lisbeth Kennelly - along with his brothers and five grandchildren.

Pictured: Simon Townsend

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