Television empire in absolute mourning: Devastated fans are left completely paralyzed with grief as a shattering live broadcast of heartbreaking tributes violently exposes the tragic deaths of Australia’s greatest fallen stars
“The Legends Australia Will Never Forget”: The Logies’ moving tribute brought memories and emotions flooding back
As television’s biggest night airs, we pause to honour the icons, storytellers, and fan favourites who left a huge mark on Australian screen culture.
In amongst the festivities that comes with celebrating Australia’s on-screen talent, the room will grow quiet for one emotional moment – the In Memoriam tribute.
While the Logies celebrate the very best of television, the evening is also an important opportunity to look back and pay homage to the industry pioneers, beloved actors, and iconic broadcasters who sadly passed away over the last year.
Danni Minogue made an appearance to pay tribute to Young Talent Time host Johnny Young who died August 14, at the age of 79, after a short battle with pancreatic cancer.
“There was something so special about being in Johnny Young’s orbit,” a teary Dannii said. “He saw something in people that they did not always see in themselves, Johnny believed in them, encouraged them to follow their dreams.”
“Perhaps, Johnny’s greatest legacy is the ripple effect he created through generations of performers… always giving his time with kindness and a smile never forgotten.
“Thank you Johnny, and to his children – you shared your father with an entire nation, and tonight, Australia is sharing and sending all their loving to you.”
Sam Neill was also honoured, with Katie Noonan and Andrea Lam paying tribute to the late actor performing Crowded House’s ‘Don’t Dream It’s Over’.
“Sam took every opportunity to open his heart and share his life and his talent with all of us. He gave us courage and hope. And very fine wine.
He loved this industry for its absurdities, as much as its potential for warmth and connection,” Heather Mitchell said.
“Sam’s dream for a peaceful world and for people to be kind.”
From Sam and Johnny, to beloved Married At First Sight star Mel Schilling, and media personalities and presenters like James Valentine and Derryn Hinch, here are the talented names we paid respect to this year.
Robert Irwin honours late father Steve Irwin by bringing reptiles to the Logie Awards
Who was honoured in the 2026 Logies In Memoriam?
Sam Neill
The internationally acclaimed screen legend captivated audiences worldwide as Dr. Alan Grant in Jurassic Park and brought towering grace to decades of film and television, leaving behind an indelible legacy across Australian, New Zealand, and global cinema.
Rachael Carpani
The vibrant screen favorite won the heart of the nation as Jodi Fountain on McLeod’s Daughters and went on to light up television screens across both Australia and Hollywood throughout her impressive career
Johnny Young
A pioneer of Australian pop culture, the ARIA and Logies Hall of Famer brought joy into living rooms nationwide as the beloved host of Young Talent Time, while shaping the sound of a generation as a hit-making songwriter.
Mel Schilling
The beloved MAFS star and relationship expert appeared on the show from 2016 to 2026, as well as numerous seasons of the UK version, before her untimely death from cancer at the age of 53.
Lorraine Bayly
The powerhouse actress captured the heart of the nation as Grace Sullivan in the iconic drama The Sullivans, while also bringing joy to generations of Aussie kids as an early presenter on Play School.
Terence Donovan
A true titan of Australian drama, he became a household fixture for his memorable turn as Doug Willis in Neighbours, alongside roles in classic series like Division 4 and Home and Away.
Ian Fairweather
A legendary pioneer of Australian children’s television, whose creative vision behind and in front of the camera helped shape beloved programs like The Curiosity Show and Here’s Humphrey.
Derryn Hinch
Known as the fearless “Human Headline,” the veteran broadcaster and current affairs icon shaped Australian television journalism across decades on shows like Hinch At Seven.
Patsy King
Longtime stage and screen actress who became a global fan favorite for her commanding performance as Governor Erica Davidson in Prisoner.
Steve Raymond
A Logie Award-winning reporter and presenter whose sharp journalism and engaging style graced newsrooms and programs including A Current Affair.
James Valentine
A cherished ABC television and radio presenter (The Afternoon Show, TVTV), loved for his quick wit, warm presence, and lifelong devotion to local arts and music.
David Stratton
A passionate champion of local and international cinema, David Stratton spent over half a century guiding audiences through the magic of the big screen with warmth, authority, and dry wit. As a former Sydney Film Festival director, author, and beloved broadcaster, he remained the undisputed heart and authority of Australian film culture.
Also mentioned were: Jamie Davies, Jamie Dunn, John Banas, John Berry, John Davies. John Hugginson, John Laws, John Sturzaker, Kevin James Dobson, Michael Charlton, Michael Scheid, Mike Preston, Paddy Conroy, Patsy King, Peter Regan, Richard Smith, Roger Climpson, Scotty Griffiths, Sue Seeary, Suzy Cato Gishler, Tania Lambert, Ted Emery, Terry Digby, Tim Robertson, Tim Stoney, Toni Lamond, Tristan Rodgers, Troy Green, Walter Saunders, Wendy Playfair.