Mike Williamson (broadcaster)
Michael Williamson | |
|---|---|
| Born | Template:Birth year and age |
| Died | May 2, 2019 (aged 90) |
| Occupation(s) | Television host, sports commentator |
| Known for | Australian rules football commentary, "Jesaulenko, you beauty!" call |
Michael Francis Williamson OAM (June 1928 – 2 May 2019) was a prominent Australian television host and sports commentator.
Career
Williamson began his professional life as a runner but was prohibited from competing due to allegations of "running dead." He then shifted to sports broadcasting, initially covering Victorian Football League (VFL) games on radio stations 3AK and 3AW. In 1959, he joined HSV-7 television as a member of their VFL commentary team.
His narration captured historic events such as the 1966 VFL Grand Final, where St Kilda secured its inaugural premiership, and the legendary 1970 VFL Grand Final. During the latter, Williamson’s enthusiastic shout "Jesaulenko, you beauty!" while witnessing Alex Jesaulenko’s outstanding mark became one of Australian rules football’s most memorable lines. This phrase was later utilized in advertising campaigns for brands like Carlton Draught and Toyota’s Legendary Moments.
In addition to his football commentary, Williamson worked as a general announcer at 3AK and 3AW. He earned the nickname "Scoop" through his midday show Radio Roundsman, which featured interviews with notable Melbourne personalities. He also hosted the Sunday music chart program TAA Hit Parade.
At HSV-7, Williamson presented several variety and quiz programs, including Tell the Truth and The Penthouse Club. The latter was co-hosted with Mary Hardy initially, followed by Bill Collins and Ernie Sigley.
Williamson died on 2 May 2019 at the age of 90.
Honours
After retiring in 1977, Williamson was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia in 2006 in recognition of his charitable contributions to the Royal Children's Hospital, particularly supporting leukaemia research.