Radio and television personality John Blackman – the voice of blue-capped Hey Hey It’s Saturday character Dickie Knee – has died aged 76. 

Blackman left his sales job in his early 20s for a crack at radio and ended up co-hosting the top-rating breakfast program on Melbourne station 3AW in the 1980s. 

But he was best known for his work on Channel Nine’s Hey Hey It’s Saturday program. 

Blackman, who was born in 1947, was the voice of comedic interjector Dickie Knee, as well as The Angel and Mrs Macgillicuddy on the long-running variety program.

The Nine Network and 3AW confirmed his death on Wednesday, describing him as a cherished voice in Australian media. 

“(He) brought joy and laughter into countless homes every weekend,” they said. 

“His distinctive voice and quick wit became a hallmark of the show, endearing him to generations of viewers.” 

Blackman, who is survived by his wife Cecile and daughter Tiffany, was diagnosed with skin cancer in 2019 and had part of his jaw surgically removed. 

His first media gig was with regional NSW radio station 2GN Goulburn. He went on to spend several decades with Hey Hey It’s Saturday until its cancellation in 1999. 

Blackman returned with the show when it made a brief comeback to television screens a decade later.

“Throughout his illustrious career, John demonstrated an unwavering commitment to his craft,” the Nine and 3AW statement said.

“His remarkable versatility and enduring presence in the industry underscored his exceptional talent. 

“Colleagues and fans alike admired his professionalism and the genuine kindness he exuded both on and off the microphone.” 

Media personality Derryn Hinch said he was shocked and saddened. 

“He handled his illnesses so bravely. We had some huge rows but he was the fastest ad lib man ever. Vale,” Hinch wrote on social media. 

Veteran journalist Hugh Riminton described Blackman as a delight to be around. 

“He was the all-conquering 3AW breakfast host when I worked there in the mid-80s, and was quick-witted and warm both on and off-air,” he said. 

“His courage through his cancer battles was something to behold.”