Remembering the lives of 7News AFL legend Ken Hose (85) and SCTV comedic gem Joe Flaherty (82)
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The Australian television community is mourning the loss of a familiar and cherished face as we bid farewell to the legendary Ken Hose, a former 7News AFL and weather presenter who has passed away at the age of 85.
The news of his passing was delivered by 7News Queensland presenter Samantha Heathwood during a live broadcast, leaving viewers and colleagues to reflect on Ken's impact during his illustrious career.
Ken Hose was not just a presenter; he was a staple of Australian television throughout the 1970s and 1980s, bringing the latest AFL coverage and weather updates into the homes of countless Australians.
His passion for AFL was evident in every report, and his warm, engaging presence made him a beloved figure on and off the screen.
Samantha, in her on-air tribute, highlighted Ken's dedication and love for his work: 'Ken spent more than a decade with Seven through the 70s and 80s covering his beloved AFL and hosting numerous programs and events.’
‘He also read the winning lotto numbers and presented the weather.'
Ken is survived by his wife Pam, their three children, and grandchildren, who will no doubt miss his presence deeply.
The outpouring of condolences on social media from fans and viewers has been a comfort to many.
'Sad to hear this! He was a lovely man!' one said.
'Ken was a lovely bloke—a real gentleman,' another said.
‘Very sad for his family and Brisbane TV,’ a third added.
You can watch 7News Queensland’s report below:
Credit: @7newsqueensland / Instagram
In similar news, the entertainment world has lost a true comedic gem with the passing of Joe Flaherty, a versatile actor, writer, and sketch comedian whose work has left an indelible mark on the industry.
At 82, after a brief illness, Joe’s death was confirmed by his daughter, Gudrun Flaherty, through the Comedic Artists Alliance.
His legacy spans memorable roles in Freaks and Geeks, Back to the Future II, Happy Gilmore, and the iconic Canadian series Second City Television (SCTV).
Gudrun's heartfelt statement reflects on her father's extraordinary life, his love for classic cinema, and the cherished moments they shared in his final months.
'Dad was an extraordinary man, known for his boundless heart and an unwavering passion for movies from the 40s and 50s,' she said.
Gudrun added that his insights into the golden age of cinema were an ‘endless fascination’ for her.
‘In these last few months, as he faced his health challenges, we had the precious opportunity to watch many of those classic movies together—moments I will forever hold dear.’
Joe Flaherty's career was a testament to his talent and versatility.
As a founding member of SCTV, he brought laughter to audiences alongside comedy greats like John Candy, Catherine O’Hara, and Martin Short.
The show, which aired from 1976 to 1984, became a cult classic, with Joe’s celebrity impressions leaving a lasting impression on fans.
American audiences will fondly remember Joe for his portrayal of Harold Weir, the sporting goods store owner and father in Freaks and Geeks.
His performances in Back to the Future Part II as the Western Union man, the heckler Donald in Happy Gilmore, and Fred Edison in Maniac Mansion further cemented his status as a beloved character actor.
Born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Joe’s comedic journey began at Second City in Chicago, where he honed his craft alongside other comedy legends.
His move to Toronto in 1973 to establish a Canadian outpost of the comedy venue led to the creation of SCTV, earning him two Emmy awards and a place in comedy history.
Joe’s extensive career also included appearances on The King of Queens, Slackers, Even Stevens, That 70s Show, Frasier, Family Guy, and American Dad, among others.
Tributes from colleagues and fans have highlighted Joe’s influence and the joy he brought to so many.
Martin Short, his SCTV co-star, praised Flaherty's wisdom and humour, calling him 'the anchor' of the show and 'the funniest man in the room’.
‘In over 50 years of our friendship, there were very few people as wise or hilarious when it came to comedy, teaching improvisation and the art of character work as Joe,’ he said.
Adam Sandler, who worked with Joe on Happy Gilmore, remembered him as a ‘comedic genius’ and a ‘true sweetheart’.
‘Worshipped Joe growing up. Always had me and my brother laughing. Count Floyd, Guy Caballero. Any move he made. He crushed as border guard in Stripes. Couldn’t be more fun to have him heckle me on the golf course. The nicest [bloke] you could know,’ Adam said.
Paul Feig, creator of Freaks and Geeks, expressed his sadness and gratitude for having known Joe, who he described as a 'true comedy hero.'
John Francis Daley, who played Joe’s son on the show, reminisced about the laughter they shared on set.
‘Joe Flaherty made me crack up so hard it ruined takes. My favourite days on set were the ones where we had scenes together. What a lovely [bloke],’ he said.
You can watch one of Joe’s skits in SCTV below:
Credit: Fumanchuaeon / YouTube
As we reflect on Ken's and Joe’s careers, it's also an opportunity to remember the value of local news and the personalities who bring it to life.
They inform us, entertain us, and sometimes, they become icons in their own right. It's a legacy that today's presenters and actors continue to build upon, and viewers should cherish.
Rest in peace, Ken and Joe.
Your contributions to television and movies will not be forgotten.
The news of his passing was delivered by 7News Queensland presenter Samantha Heathwood during a live broadcast, leaving viewers and colleagues to reflect on Ken's impact during his illustrious career.
Ken Hose was not just a presenter; he was a staple of Australian television throughout the 1970s and 1980s, bringing the latest AFL coverage and weather updates into the homes of countless Australians.
His passion for AFL was evident in every report, and his warm, engaging presence made him a beloved figure on and off the screen.
Former 7News journalist and presenter Ken Hose passed at 85. Credit: @7newsqueensland / Instagram
Samantha, in her on-air tribute, highlighted Ken's dedication and love for his work: 'Ken spent more than a decade with Seven through the 70s and 80s covering his beloved AFL and hosting numerous programs and events.’
‘He also read the winning lotto numbers and presented the weather.'
Ken is survived by his wife Pam, their three children, and grandchildren, who will no doubt miss his presence deeply.
The outpouring of condolences on social media from fans and viewers has been a comfort to many.
'Sad to hear this! He was a lovely man!' one said.
'Ken was a lovely bloke—a real gentleman,' another said.
‘Very sad for his family and Brisbane TV,’ a third added.
You can watch 7News Queensland’s report below:
Credit: @7newsqueensland / Instagram
In similar news, the entertainment world has lost a true comedic gem with the passing of Joe Flaherty, a versatile actor, writer, and sketch comedian whose work has left an indelible mark on the industry.
At 82, after a brief illness, Joe’s death was confirmed by his daughter, Gudrun Flaherty, through the Comedic Artists Alliance.
His legacy spans memorable roles in Freaks and Geeks, Back to the Future II, Happy Gilmore, and the iconic Canadian series Second City Television (SCTV).
Gudrun's heartfelt statement reflects on her father's extraordinary life, his love for classic cinema, and the cherished moments they shared in his final months.
'Dad was an extraordinary man, known for his boundless heart and an unwavering passion for movies from the 40s and 50s,' she said.
Comedic gem Joe Flaherty passed away at 82 after fighting with an illness. Credit: @MarkHamill / Twitter
Gudrun added that his insights into the golden age of cinema were an ‘endless fascination’ for her.
‘In these last few months, as he faced his health challenges, we had the precious opportunity to watch many of those classic movies together—moments I will forever hold dear.’
Joe Flaherty's career was a testament to his talent and versatility.
As a founding member of SCTV, he brought laughter to audiences alongside comedy greats like John Candy, Catherine O’Hara, and Martin Short.
The show, which aired from 1976 to 1984, became a cult classic, with Joe’s celebrity impressions leaving a lasting impression on fans.
American audiences will fondly remember Joe for his portrayal of Harold Weir, the sporting goods store owner and father in Freaks and Geeks.
His performances in Back to the Future Part II as the Western Union man, the heckler Donald in Happy Gilmore, and Fred Edison in Maniac Mansion further cemented his status as a beloved character actor.
Born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Joe’s comedic journey began at Second City in Chicago, where he honed his craft alongside other comedy legends.
His move to Toronto in 1973 to establish a Canadian outpost of the comedy venue led to the creation of SCTV, earning him two Emmy awards and a place in comedy history.
Joe’s extensive career also included appearances on The King of Queens, Slackers, Even Stevens, That 70s Show, Frasier, Family Guy, and American Dad, among others.
Tributes from colleagues and fans have highlighted Joe’s influence and the joy he brought to so many.
Martin Short, his SCTV co-star, praised Flaherty's wisdom and humour, calling him 'the anchor' of the show and 'the funniest man in the room’.
‘In over 50 years of our friendship, there were very few people as wise or hilarious when it came to comedy, teaching improvisation and the art of character work as Joe,’ he said.
Adam Sandler, who worked with Joe on Happy Gilmore, remembered him as a ‘comedic genius’ and a ‘true sweetheart’.
‘Worshipped Joe growing up. Always had me and my brother laughing. Count Floyd, Guy Caballero. Any move he made. He crushed as border guard in Stripes. Couldn’t be more fun to have him heckle me on the golf course. The nicest [bloke] you could know,’ Adam said.
Paul Feig, creator of Freaks and Geeks, expressed his sadness and gratitude for having known Joe, who he described as a 'true comedy hero.'
John Francis Daley, who played Joe’s son on the show, reminisced about the laughter they shared on set.
‘Joe Flaherty made me crack up so hard it ruined takes. My favourite days on set were the ones where we had scenes together. What a lovely [bloke],’ he said.
You can watch one of Joe’s skits in SCTV below:
Credit: Fumanchuaeon / YouTube
As we reflect on Ken's and Joe’s careers, it's also an opportunity to remember the value of local news and the personalities who bring it to life.
They inform us, entertain us, and sometimes, they become icons in their own right. It's a legacy that today's presenters and actors continue to build upon, and viewers should cherish.
Your contributions to television and movies will not be forgotten.
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I only knew of the actor joe from movies he was a funny man to watch.
