James Valentine will relinquish media commitments to focus on his health.
Radio and television host James Valentine has announced he is retiring from the media to focus on his health.
After 25 on 702 ABC Radio Sydney, he will say goodbye to his audience on Friday afternoon with a special two-hour retrospective program.
“I will not be back for the microphone and the Afternoon Program this year,” he said. “It’s time for me to retire.”
“This decision was difficult for me to make, but I have to focus on getting better and being with family and friends and making sure I do my best for my health.”
“This Friday, Jen Fleming, producer of the program for many years, and I want to present a retrospective; the best of it Afternoonsto record what we have created in those 25 years.”
ABC managing director Hugh Marks said: “James is one of the great creative forces in Australian broadcasting.
“He has an extraordinary gift for transforming everyday moments into joyful, smart and surprising radio, and the connection he has built with his audience over the decades simply cannot be overstated.
“We are proud to celebrate all he has brought to the ABC, and we wish him strength and support as he focuses on his health.”
James began his media career in the mid-1980s with cartoons on ABC TV The Afternoon Show. He went on to work for several ABC television programs, including most notably TVTV before moving into radio at 666 ABC Radio Canberra. He then moved on to the Mornings program in Sydney.
In 2024, he announced he would quit the program to receive treatment for esophageal cancer.
The James Valentine Afternoons: Retrospective A special program will air on 702 ABC Radio Sydney at 12.30pm AEDT on Friday 6 February and across NSW at 1.30pm.
He is also distancing himself from his ABC Jazz program Upbeat, where he has been sharing his passion for jazz with the audience since the program’s launch in 2020.
Throughout the week, James’ loyal audience is invited to share favorite memories, moments and stories on the 702 ABC Radio Sydney Facebook page. These will be reflected in Friday’s special broadcast as the channel celebrates the legacy of one of its best-loved presenters.
Thinking of you right now, JV!
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