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Johnny Young, the singer-songwriter and producer who created and hosted the popular variety show Young Talent Time, has died aged 79.

Young’s family announced his death in a statement on Friday, saying that Young died “following a brief battle with pancreatic cancer”.

“Johnny was the creator, host and producer of the much loved television show Young Talent Time. He wrote and produced many iconic hit songs including The Real Thing and Smily,” the statement read.

“The family respectfully asks for privacy during this difficult time. Details of a memorial service will be announced soon.”

Young Talent Time, which originally aired from 1971 until 1988, launched the careers of several Australian singers including Tina Arena, Debra Byrne and Dannii Minogue. Every episode ended with Young and the cast performing the same closing number: the Beatles track All My Loving, one of his signature songs.

Young is survived by his third wife Marisha, sister Cornelia, daughters Anna and Fleur, seven grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. His son Craig also died of pancreatic cancer, aged 48.

More to come.