A Legacy Remembered
In this episode of The Court of Public Opinion, Jeremy Cordeaux reflects on the memorial service for Reg Grundy and Joy Chambers Grundy, two of Australia’s most iconic figures in television history. Reg Grundy, often referred to as a television pioneer, left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. Jeremy shares how Grundy’s career began humbly as a window dresser before skyrocketing to fame as the producer of popular shows like Wheel of Fortune. “Reg was a remarkable man who produced more television than anyone else in the world,” Jeremy recalls, highlighting the extraordinary impact Grundy had on shaping Australian and international television.
“Reg was a remarkable man who produced more television than anyone else in the world,”
Jeremy CoRDEAUX recalls, highlighting the extraordinary impact Grundy had on shaping Australian and international television.
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From Game Shows to Global Success
Jeremy reminisces about his personal connection to Reg Grundy, particularly his role in hosting Blind Date, a job Reg personally offered him. “It gave me a huge boost in my career,” Jeremy admits, expressing deep gratitude for the opportunity that played a pivotal role in shaping his professional journey. Reg Grundy’s genius wasn’t just in creating television shows; it was in giving people like Jeremy a chance to shine. Jeremy reflects on how Grundy had an uncanny ability to identify talent and create television formats that resonated with audiences worldwide. “Reg’s shows weren’t just local hits, they became global sensations,” Jeremy notes, emphasising the breadth of Grundy’s influence.
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PICTURE ABOVE: On 18 March 1985, NEIGHBOURS was first broadcast on the Seven Network. The series succeeded in Melbourne but struggled in Sydney, leading to its cancellation after just four months. Staying true to Reg’s ‘never give up’ attitude, Ian Holmes sold NEIGHBOURS to rival network Ten in an unprecedented move. NEIGHBOURS has since become the longest running drama series in Australian television.
Celebrating Remarkable Lives
Jeremy calls the memorial a heartfelt, fitting tribute to Reg and Joy, who lived remarkable, adventurous lives. He reflects on their deep love for travel and exploration, noting, “They were always supportive, always kind.” The couple’s love for life and each other showed in how they traveled the world, embracing every experience. Jeremy highlights how the couple’s philanthropy, especially Joy’s passion for writing and the arts, enriched their legacy. “Joy’s kindness matched Reg’s genius,” Jeremy observes.
He believes Reg and Joy’s legacy will continue to inspire and shape the television industry for generations. “They left a legacy of kindness, creativity, and innovation,” Jeremy concludes, noting their lasting impact on television and society.
Topic time in podcast and video: 02:32 – 06:22
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