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Dannii Minogue has said her “heart is broken” after death of talent show host Johnny Young, who helped launch her career.
Minogue, 54, rose to fame in her native Australia aged eight when she was cast on the weekly music programme Young Talent Time, which Young presented and produced.
On Friday, Young’s family confirmed in a statement that he had died aged 79 following a brief battle with pancreatic cancer, as per Australian broadcaster ABC.
After news of his death was announced, Minogue paid tribute on Instagram.
Sharing a series of clips and photos of them together during her time on the show in the 1980s, she wrote: “Johnny Young holds a place in so many hearts, and today my heart is broken.
“He has so many achievements from his music and TV career, pop writing and releases, and family entertainment on our televisions. For me, this is where my career started, and generations of Aussies hold Young Talent Time and the song All My Loving so fondly in their memories.
“His show brought 17 years of colour, choreography, sequins, music and smiles to our Saturday nights.”
She added: “My heart goes out to his family and to his YTT family. From cast, crew and every Johnny Young Talent School member, this is a very sad Goodnight Australia.”
Minogue’s older sister Kylie – who also made appearances on Young Talent Time – commented on the post and shared: “Embedded into all our hearts and memories. YTT 4 Ever and RIP Johnny Young. My condolences to his family and all the YTT fans
“Such formative years for my sister and her team that became like family to her. I’m sending all my love for a group Goodnight Australia for the one and only Johnny Young.”
Young hosted Young Talent Time for its entire run from 1971 until 1988, with the show also credited with discovering other stars including Tina Arena.
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