James Valentine, Renowned Models Musician and Beloved Broadcaster, Dies at 64
James Valentine, the multifaceted Australian artist, author, and radio personality—best remembered as a key member of the ARIA Hall of Fame-inducted group Models—has passed away following a courageous battle with cancer. He was 64.
In a heartfelt statement, his family shared: “James passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by those who cherished him.”
A gifted saxophonist with a natural affinity for jazz, Valentine was a central figure in the Australian music scene throughout the 1980s. His resume includes collaborations with high-profile acts such as Absent Friends, the Wendy Matthews Band, Jo Camilleri, Stephen Cummings, and Kate Ceberano.
Valentine played a pivotal role in the success of the Models’ landmark album, Out of Mind, Out of Sight. The record, which earned significant international recognition, spent 18 weeks on the Billboard 200 and produced iconic hits like “Big on Love,” “Barbados,” and the title track, which climbed to No. 37 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1986.
Beyond his musical contributions, Valentine carved out a legendary three-decade career in media with the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC). For over 20 years, he served as the voice of the 702 ABC Sydney Afternoons radio program, where his signature wit and deep curiosity earned him national acclaim, including a Bronze Award at the New York Festival’s Radio Awards in 2020.
Tributes have poured in from across the nation. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese honored Valentine’s legacy, stating, “He was someone who was always worth listening to. He was deeply engaging and possessed an incredible zest for life.” Similarly, ABC chair Kim Williams described him as a “creative polymath,” while New South Wales premier Chris Minns noted that Valentine’s unique, conversational approach to broadcasting left a void that will be deeply felt by the Sydney community.
Just last weekend, Australia’s Governor-General Sam Mostyn posthumously honored Valentine as a Member of the Order of Australia (AM), recognizing his exceptional service and cultural impact. Reflecting on his character, Mostyn remarked, “His ideas were gentle, sensible, and deeply important regarding how a community connects.”
Valentine first shared his oesophageal cancer diagnosis with his listeners in March 2024. Despite a brief return to the airwaves in 2025, he stepped away again in June after further complications. He is survived by his wife, Joanne, and their two children.
