Australian television pioneer Brian Walsh dies aged 67

Brian Walsh died in Sydney yesterday Thursday.

Pay-TV group Foxtel, which he co-founded, said the death of Walsh was sudden and that he had been one of the most admired creative leaders in Australian television.

Walsh began his career at the ABC, then worked at Palm Beach Pictures, station 2SM radio and Network 10. Then, in 1995, he was a key member of the management team that established Australian subscription television with the launch of Foxtel.

He is remembered for his multifaceted media career, including as a gifted journalist for media, entertainment and sport, and his significant role in many iconic moments in Australian television.

He is credited with the global success of "Neighbors", including launching the careers of its actors Kylie Minogue , Jason Donocan and Guy Pearce.

In addition, he created the National Rugby League's "Simply the Best" season launch , which included Tina Turner, and was the creative force behind a series of successful Grand Finals and State of Origin entertainment shows and events.

Over the past two decades he has overseen scripted and unscripted commissions for the Foxtel Group, including the likes of "Wentworth", "Upright", "Love Me", "Colin from Accounts", and "The Twelve".

Patrick Delany, current CEO of Foxtel Group, said: "It is a very difficult day for The Foxtel Group family, for the Australian creative community and the millions of Australians who have watched and loved the stories Brian brought to life on television. The Australian creative community has lost a much-loved figure in Brian. For us, the loss is hard to feel.

"Within the Foxtel group, Brian was a long-time mentor, confidant, colleague and an unfailing friend of so many people. Today we mourn the passing of Brian. Our condolences go out to his family and loved ones. We have lost an icon of Australian television who will never be replaced. Rest in peace Brian."

Earlier this week it was announced that Walsh was set to take the stage at the Screen Forever conference to interview Ralph Lee, CEO of Studios Productions, who has overall responsibility for BBC Studios Productions globally.

– This report originally appeared in Variety Australia.

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