Hall of Fame radio caller David Morrow dies after battle with brain cancer

As the NRL community prepares for the State of Origin decider, the game is in mourning after the death of a Hall of Famer.

Legendary sports broadcaster David Morrow has died. Picture: Mark Levy/X

Tributes are flowing for a man dubbed “one of the great voices of the game” after legendary radio caller David Morrow died following a battle with brain cancer.

Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) chairman Peter V’landys led the tributes to Morrow, who was diagnosed with brain cancer before Christmas in 2023.

In the lead-up to his death, Morrow was inducted into the NRL Hall of Fame and V’landys said the rugby league community would mourn his passing.

“David has been one of the great voices of the game – recognised around the country for his wit, his insight and his knowledge,” V’landys said.

“I had the pleasure of knowing David throughout my career in sport and he was a champion in every sense of the word. I have been honoured and privileged to know him as a friend.
“In his final days, David knew how cherished he was in the rugby league community, having been informed of his induction into the Hall of Fame. While it is terrible that we have lost David, it is comforting to know that he and his family were aware what the game felt about his achievements.

Legendary sports broadcaster David ‘Thirsty’ Morrow has died aged 71, following a battle with brain cancer.

MORE: https://t.co/XXVr1ZB81Dpic.twitter.com/27dkmW9ukS

— 2GB Sydney (@2GB873) July 17, 2024

Rest in peace mate.

Doesn't seem real that you are no longer with us.

We've lost a brilliant human 💔 pic.twitter.com/tygdE6GNwL

— 🎙️QUENTIN HULL (@QuentinHull) July 17, 2024

“David’s life and contribution will be celebrated on August 21 at the Hall of Fame dinner. On behalf of the commission, I extend our sincerest condolences to David’s family and all those who worked with him and knew him.”

Morrow was a radio and television commentator for the ABC from 1980 to 2014, calling Saturday football to a national audience on ABC television until 1996. He joined 2GB’s rugby league commentary team in 2015.

His long-time colleague, 2GB’s Ray Hadley, said his team’s State of Origin call on Wednesday night would be dedicated to Morrow.

“It will be with a sad heart that we confront State of Origin without our mate,” Hadley said.

“We will be dedicating the game tonight in his memory. David Morrow is gone but will never be forgotten.”

Morrow, who was 71, is survived by wife Christine and daughters Emily and Lucy.