James Valentine (journalist)|James Valentine

If you ever met James Valentine, you know that he had a spark that was impossible to dim. Whether he was holding a saxophone on stage with Models, chatting away on ABC Radio Sydney, or cracking a joke on *The Afternoon Show*, he brought a kind of warmth and curiosity to the room that made everyone feel like they were his favorite person at that moment. Born on a spring day in 1962, James lived a life that was anything but ordinary, but it was his kindness and wit that we will miss the most. He wasn’t just a broadcaster or a musician; he was a storyteller who genuinely cared about the people he spoke to, always digging for the heart of the matter with a gentle touch. At home, James was the anchor of our family. He loved us fiercely and lived with a passion that was contagious. I’ll never forget the sound of him practicing scales in the living room, or the way his face would light up when he talked about the magic of music—whether it was with Jo Jo Zep, Absent Friends, or just jamming for the sheer joy of it. He taught us that creativity isn't just a job; it’s a way of breathing. Even in his later years, as he faced his own mortality with the same grace he showed the world, he remained our rock, facing his journey toward assisted suicide with a bravery that broke our hearts but filled us with admiration for his spirit. James had a way of making the ordinary feel extraordinary. He found joy in the perfect radio interview, the smooth glide of a saxophone solo, and the chaotic, wonderful energy of live television. He had this incredible ability to connect with strangers, making them feel seen and heard, and that is the legacy he leaves behind. The outpouring of love from the community shows just how many lives he touched—not just as a public figure, but as a human being who took the time to listen. We are heartbroken to say goodbye to James on April 23, 2026, but we are so grateful for the music, the laughter, and the love he poured into our lives. Rest easy, James. You played a beautiful tune, and we will be humming it for the rest of our days.