John Burns (radio presenter)
John Burns | |
|---|---|
| Born | July 30, 1945 Australia |
| Occupation(s) | Radio broadcaster, former barrister and crown prosecutor |
| Years active | 1988–2020 |
| Known for | Co-host of 3AW breakfast show "Breakfast with Ross and John" |
John Burns (born 30 July 1945) is a prominent Australian radio broadcaster.
Career
Burns launched his radio journey in 1988 at the community station 3RRR with the show Lawyers, Guns & Money, which introduced the character Sir Lunchalot. This persona later moved to commercial radio, becoming a recurring Friday feature on the 3AW breakfast program, where he delivered witty restaurant critiques and advice on dining manners.
In 2001, following Dean Banks' retirement, Burns teamed up with Ross Stevenson as co-host of 3AW's breakfast show. The program, titled Breakfast with Ross and John, quickly rose to become the station's leading broadcast. Burns concluded his tenure at 3AW in July 2020, with his final episode airing on the 31st; Russel Howcroft took over his role.
Prior to his media career, Burns spent 22 years practicing law as a Victorian crown prosecutor and barrister.
Awards
- 2011 Australian Commercial Radio Awards (ACRA): Winner of Best On-air Team – Metro AM (shared with Ross Stevenson)
Personal life
John Burns is married to Monique, and together they have three sons. He frequently shared stories on-air about Rocky (formerly Rocca), a dog he adopted who was once on "death row." The dog's black and white coat inspired its name, referencing Collingwood Football Club players Sav Rocca and Anthony Rocca. After Rocky passed away, Burns welcomed another dog named Gus into his family.
His son Andrew Burns works as an actor and comedian and is the founder of Question One, the largest quiz night organization in London.
Burns is an avid fan of the Melbourne Demons AFL team.
On 25 January 2018, Burns pleaded guilty to drink driving in Melbourne Magistrates Court and subsequently issued a public apology during a broadcast.