Darren Scott: the voice, the laughter, the legacy
Darren Scott: the voice, the laughter, the legacy
Darren Scott: the voice, the laughter, the legacy
Gary Oberholzer
Darren Scott: the voice, the laughter, the legacy
A year has passed since South African radio lost one of its most recognisable and beloved voices — but for many listeners, colleagues and friends, it still feels impossible to imagine the airwaves without Darren Scott.
On 27 May 2025, tributes poured in from across the country after the veteran broadcaster lost his long battle with stage four melanoma at the age of 61. But even now, one year later, Darren’s presence still lingers in studios, in songs, in sports debates, and in the memories of the millions of South Africans who grew up listening to him.
Over a radio career spanning more than four decades, Darren became far more than a presenter. He became part of people’s daily routines — the voice on the school run, the soundtrack to late-night drives, the companion during life’s biggest moments and toughest days.
From Capital Radio 604 and Radio Bop to 5FM, East Coast Radio, Jacaranda FM and eventually HOT 102.7FM, Darren had an extraordinary ability to make radio feel personal.
Following his death, Darren was posthumously honoured at the Telkom Radio Awards, where he was named Afternoon Drive Presenter of the Year — another reminder of the mark he left on South African broadcasting.
That came after his induction into the Radio Awards Hall of Fame, recognising an incredible 40 years behind the microphone and cementing his status as one of the true greats of South African radio.
But beyond the accolades, Darren is remembered most for something impossible to measure: connection.
He had the rare ability to sound like he was speaking directly to you — whether he was talking music, sport, life, or simply sharing a laugh. Colleagues often spoke about his warmth, his humour, and his relentless passion for radio right until the very end.
One year later, Darren Scott’s microphone may have gone silent… but his voice still echoes loudly through South African radio.
References:
- Good Things Guy – Darren Scott tribute and Hall of Fame recognition
- RadioInfo Africa – 2025 Telkom Radio Awards coverage
- Smile FM – Announcement of Darren Scott’s passing
