The South African broadcasting world has lost one of its brightest, boldest voices. Darren Scott passed away in the early hours of the morning after a long and courageous battle with cancer — and while the grief is immense, so too is the outpouring of memories, laughter, and reverence from the people who knew him best.

Across more than four decades, Darren became one of the most recognisable figures on South African airwaves. From Capital Radio to 5FM, Jacaranda, East Coast Radio and HOT 102.7FM, and from SuperSport to Boots & All, he was a master storyteller, an innovator, and a true original. His voice shaped the soundtrack of a generation — and his presence made studios, stadiums and living rooms feel electric.

David O’Sullivan, who met Darren in 1984, recalled the moment the legend was born. “He popped his head around the newsroom door and introduced himself as ‘Kevin Scott.’ He wasn’t even Darren yet. That cheeky grin never left him.” Their friendship, spanning 40 years, was full of humour, loyalty, and sharp wit. “Even in hospital, when he couldn’t speak, he still frowned at me about something from the ’80s. He never let a joke die.”

Neil Andrews remembered Darren’s dual genius — both as a professional and a prankster. “He once swapped my live TV script with a blank page that said ‘What is the code horse?’ That was Darren — brilliant, bold, and full of mischief.”

Brian Mitchell saw him through the lens of sport and showmanship. “He was the ring announcer the night I won my world title in 1986. He was only 22 but already brilliant. He was naughty, smart, and flawless.”

John Robbie called him the best presenter he’d ever worked with. “He had a mind like a steel trap, a confidence that never wavered, and a deep love for his craft. He wasn’t perfect — and he didn’t pretend to be — but he was real, and he kept showing up.”

Tony Blewitt, who worked with Darren across four stations, shared tales of upside-down rollercoaster videos, trivia blowouts, and dam-side property rivalries. “He was full of fire and impossible to forget.”

Naas Botha, his co-anchor on Boots & All, said Darren was simply the best. “He made guests feel comfortable. He was always prepared — even if he arrived five minutes before airtime.”

Kurt Darren, close friend and collaborator, gave a more intimate view. “He was sharp, kind, and hilarious. We played Trivial Pursuit for hours, and he wiped the floor with me. We started a golf day together, and in his final days, we helped raise funds for his care through a quiet charity auction. That was Darren — big heart, big brain, and just a quality human being.”

HOT 102.7FM’s Tony Murrell remembered Darren Scott as a prankster, a loyal friend, and a radio legend. Darren was even his groomsman — stopping for drinks on the way to the Tony’s wedding and pulling cheeky pranks at the altar. Tony said Darren’s passing was peaceful — and his legacy unforgettable.

And finally, John Walland, who worked side-by-side with Darren for years, spoke through emotion and honesty. “He could be tough — a hard taskmaster. But that fire came from passion. He fought for quality. He fought for his people. He was a force of nature.”

John remembered September 11th, 2001 — a moment when Darren’s brilliance shone brightest. “He filled the airwaves with live reaction, insight, and humanity. It was some of the finest live radio I’ve ever heard.” He also recalled moments of outrageous honesty, humour, and absurdity — including the time Darren refused a Jameson whiskey at their distillery in Dublin, insisting on Jack Daniels instead. They brought it to him.

“That was Darren. Fierce, funny, loyal, demanding — and absolutely unforgettable.”

Whether he was on air, at the dam, in the boxing ring, or planning a fundraiser, Darren gave all of himself. He wasn’t perfect. He was better — he was real.

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