Andrew Denton on a beloved broadcaster's final taboo act

About this episode

Andrew Denton discusses James Valentine's decision to end his life through voluntary assisted dying and the challenges surrounding access to VAD in Australia.

From his diagnosis with oesophageal cancer in 2024 to openly wrestling with end-of-life decisions, beloved ABC broadcaster James Valentine took his listeners along with him as he stared down his own death. Now, after his passing, that openness continues – with James’ decision to share the fact that he ended his life through voluntary assisted dying, or VAD. Today, Go Gentle Australia founder Andrew Denton on James’ decision, and why some Australians still have trouble accessing VAD, despite it being legal in all but one Australian territory.   If you enjoy 7am , the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support .   Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Go Gentle Australia founder, Andrew Denton Photo:  AAP Image/Dan Himbrechts See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

People in this episode

Guest: Andrew Denton

Topics covered

• voluntary assisted dying
• end-of-life decisions
• cancer
• broadcasting
• mental health
• Australia

Keywords

• voluntary assisted dying
• James Valentine
• Andrew Denton
• oesophageal cancer
• end-of-life
• Australia
• broadcasting

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Go Gentle Australia, ABC

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