Richard Wilkins Says His Son Became His ‘Rock’ — The Life-Changing Bond That Has Shaped Him for Decades
For decades, Richard Wilkins has shared much of his life with Australian audiences. But one of the most defining relationships in his life has remained deeply personal.
Reflecting on his eldest son Adam, who was born with Down syndrome, the veteran television presenter says the experience changed not only his path—but the person he became.
“He’s my rock”
Richard Wilkins has often described becoming a father at just 18 as the moment his life changed forever.
Looking back today, the 71-year-old says that while he struggled to cope with the responsibility as a teenager, he now sees his eldest son Adam as the person who gave his life direction.
“I didn’t quite know how to handle all that at the tender age of 18, but now I often refer to him as my rock.”
He has also reflected on how different his life might have been had fatherhood not arrived so early.
“I don’t know what would have happened to me if I hadn’t been forced to suddenly grow up at the age of 18.”
A Decision No Parent Ever Wants to Make
Richard became a father after welcoming Adam with his first wife, Lynette, in New Zealand.
Soon after Adam’s birth, the young couple learned he had Down syndrome. They spent the first 18 months caring for him themselves before making the heartbreaking decision to place him in specialised care when they realised they could no longer provide the support he needed.
Although Adam no longer lived with them, Richard has always stressed that he never stepped away from his son’s life.
“I was still there for him any day of the week, but I had to relinquish everyday care to others.”
Today, Adam continues to live in New Zealand, where Richard says he has received the care and support that allowed him to live a happy and fulfilling life.
Richard Wilkins releases new podcast
Fatherhood Became His Greatest Achievement
Throughout a career spanning music, radio and television, Richard has become one of Australia’s most recognisable media personalities.
Away from the spotlight, however, he says nothing compares with being a father.
Richard is now the proud father of five children—Adam, Rebecca, Nick, Christian and Estella—and has often spoken about how family remains at the centre of his life.
“People often ask me what the greatest thing I’ve ever done is. I always say the greatest thing in my life is my children—bar none. I love, love, love them so much.”
A Bond That Has Never Changed
While Richard’s career has taken him around the world and his personal life has seen many chapters, his connection with Adam has remained constant.
What once felt overwhelming to an 18-year-old father has, over the years, become one of the relationships he treasures most.
For Richard, Adam is far more than his eldest son—he is the quiet source of strength who helped shape the man, the father and the broadcaster Australia has come to know.