Veteran Channel Nine presenter Bob Puccetti has died aged 93 at his home in Tasmania, after a prolonged illness.
The American-born presenter was the host of Nine’s long-running Mid Dawn program in South Australia in the ’80s, which helped promote local businesses to viewers.
Mid Dawn was screened in commercial breaks during movie marathons on Friday and Saturday nights, during which Puccetti showcased local businesses across the state and connected viewers with great local offers.
Puccetti earned a reputation for championing the local business community with immense enthusiasm.
His trademark mixture of perkiness and tireless demeanour saw him become known as the ‘king of late-night television’ across the state.
He was also an accomplished voice-over artist and frequently narrated documentaries about the South Australian media industry.
Channel Nine presenter Bob Puccetti (pictured) has died at 93 at his home in Tasmania, following a long health battle
His passing was confirmed by his daughter, Rina, in a social media post.
‘Does anybody remember the Midnight to Dawn Show on Channel 9 in the early to mid-80s? It was hosted by the legendary Bob Puccetti. Sadly, Bob passed away a few days ago at the grand old age of 93,’ she began.
‘His media career included stints at The News, Channel 9, and 5AA with the late Bob Francis.Â
‘He also played a key role in organising The Look of the Year Quest, a well-known modelling competition in Adelaide during the 1990s and early 2000s.
‘He was universally liked by everyone who met him and he genuinely loved people.’
Heartbroken fans took to social media to pay tribute to Puccetti.
‘Wonderful man, remember him on TV fondly,’ one person wrote.
‘I worked at Ch9 Adelaide in those days. He was a real character and a lovely man. Sorry to hear of his passing. Condolences,’ a second added.
The American-born presenter was the host of Nine’s long-running Mid Dawn program in South Australia in the ’80s, which helped promote local businesses to viewers
Puccetti became known as a ‘legend of late night TV’ and developed a reputation for helping promote the local business community
‘Condolences to his family. Always remember watching his show when I was younger. I knew I was up late if Bob was on lol,’ a third chimed in.
‘Absolutely remember that show & Bob! Sorry to hear of his passing, may he RIP,’ another wrote.
‘Always remember watching his show when I was younger. I knew I was up late if Bob was on lol,’ someone else reminisced.Â
Puccetti is survived by his three children, Rina, Chris and Mike.
