Much-loved children's TV presenter dies at 69 as heartbroken wife speaks out

14 June 2024 , 06:17

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Michael Gibson has died aged 69

Children's TV presenter Michael Gibson has died.

The comedian and entertainer who was known to many as "Gibbo" following his appearance on Agro's Cartoon Connection passed away earlier this week, it has been announced. The news of his passing comes less than two years after the 69-year-old was diagnosed with dementia.

Taking to social media, his devastated wife Carol penned: "Many of you may know by now of the passing of my lovely husband Michael. He left us after another dementia battle and, while it was sad to watch, I'm grateful he's now free. He was the brightest of us and we were so fortunate to share his time."

Meanwhile, his co-star Jamie Dunn, who appeared on the popular programme between 1990 and 1997 said: "Farewell my funny friend. You were hilarious 100 per cent of the time! I have nothing but wonderful memories of you."

Michael often entertained fans on Argo's Cartoon Connection while dressed in overalls

Fans have since paid tribute on social media, with one writing: "Great memories watching Agro and the team before school in the late 80s! Rest easy, Gibbo." A second went on to say: "Funny how you can genuinely morn someone you hadn't thought of in many years." "Watching Agro was like a religious practice for me. Safe travels Gibbo, thx for the memories," wrote a third.

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Breandan Wood took to X, formerly known as Twitter, writing: "Michael 'Gibbo' Gibson, one of Brisbane’s most creative performers, died yesterday, says his wife Carol Gibson in a post on Facebook. Gibbo was born in 1954, and provided creative content for @Channel9 Brisbane, @Channel7 Brisbane & @SCA’s B105. He made a lot of people laugh."

Michael delighted fans on Argo's Cartoon Connection which was fronted by a puppet known as Agro, voiced by Jamie Dunn, alongside co-hosts Ann-Maree Biggar and Terasa Livington. Gibson, who also produced the programme was often seen on-screen as 'Gibbo' wearing painter's overalls.

The late star learnt his craft from Australian TV and radio legend Max Rowley before eventually moving onto NIDA in 1977, studying alongside Hollywood mega-stars Mel Gibson and Judy Davis. It was in the same year that he met his future wife, Carol. During his lengthy career in entertainment, he worked at the Nine Network in Brisbane as the promotions manager as well as writing and performing comedy on radio networks such as B105.

His former radio pal, Robin Bailey said: "He just made you laugh. He just was this wonderful person." Michael is survived by his wife Carol and their two children.

Daniel Bird