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RIP: John ‘Strop’ Cornell dies aged 80

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Viewers knew him as ‘Strop’ but John Cornell was a powerhouse behind the scenes, influencing some of the biggest TV players

John Cornell and wife Delvene Delaney (image – News Corp)

John Cornell has died aged 80. He was the man who can rightly be credited for making Paul Hogan an international success. He was also Kerry Packer’s confidante during World Series Cricket.

His death comes after a 20-year battle with Parkinson’s disease.

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Below is a statement from his family:

John Cornell, one of Australia’s leading lights in journalism, television, sport and film, passed away peacefully this morning in Byron Bay, with his wife and eldest daughter by his side, and his youngest daughter on the phone from the UK.

Born in Kalgoorlie on the 2nd of March, 1941, John rose quickly through the ranks of journalism at the Daily News in Perth, becoming the youngest super-a grade journalist in Australia, and London editor at the age of 26.

John then turned his talents to television, as the original producer of A Current Affair, naming the program, and initiating a new approach to television journalism.

John was seeking the equivalent for A Current Affair of a newspaper cartoonist, and recognized the quintessential larrikin qualities in Paul Hogan. The two teamed on the bond of a handshake, creating a 16 year run of the highest rating comedy specials, The Paul Hogan Shows, which John co-wrote, produced and performed in as the gormless but lovable Strop… and ultimately, the hugely resonant and globally successful Crocodile Dundee films. John’s acute instincts and sharp intelligence drove his rebellious push of World Series Cricket against the establishment for higher recognition and bigger salaries for the world’s players of his favourite game, re-imagining, marketing and capturing it in a brand-new form.

In 1980, John moved his family to a 120 acre farm in Byron Bay, buying the historic Hotel Brunswick and building the iconic Beach Hotel in 1991. After being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2001, John concentrated his efforts on philanthropy, supporting his community and worthy environmental, sporting and medical causes.

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A classic Australian character, John Cornell made the lives he touched much richer, not only through donations, but also through his generosity of spirit, humour, humility and honour. A true egalitarian, John sought equity and equality, and fought for a fair go. He is survived by his broken-hearted wife of 46 years, Delvene Delaney, and his daughters, Melissa, Allira and Liana Cornell.

Nine’s Michael Healy has put out a statement on behalf of the Nine Network, saying:

“John Cornell was a man of enormous intellect and a creative genius who managed to touch so many, but as importantly he was a man with a big heart that filled a room.

“From journalism with the creation of A Current Affair, through sport with World Series Cricket and entertainment with his mate Hoges they made magic on television for decades here at Nine. 

“Our sincere condolences go to his beloved wife Delvene and daughters, Melissa, Allira and Liana Cornell as well as all those who he loved and shared his life with. Our love and thoughts are also with David Gyngell and Leila McKinnon who were like family with Corney and Delvene.”

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Robert McKnight
Robert McKnighthttps://tvblackbox.com.au/robert-mcknight/
"Leading TV commentator" - The Daily Telegraph | "Known for his impeccable sources in the TV industry" - The Daily Mail | "Always first with the correct info" - Beau Ryan | Robert McKnight is a highly regarded Australian Television Producer having worked at SEVEN, NINE and TEN during his 30 years in the industry. Currently Rob can be seen every fortnight on THE MORNING SHOW (7) and heard on NIGHTS WITH JOHN STANLEY (2GB/4BC). He is also a producer on 7 NEWS SPOTLIGHT.
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