Beloved and iconic Play School presenter John Hamblin has died at the age of 87

Play School presenter John Hamblin has sadly died at the age of 87.

ABC Director of Entertainment and Specialist Jennifer Collins said the TV presenter certainly made his mark on millions of Australian kids over the years.

“John was an unforgettable presenter whose comedic timing and wit helped cement Play School as one of Australia’s most cherished children’s programs,” she said.

“John had a wicked sense of humour and was not afraid of a double entendre.

“His presence always managed to keep both our toddler target audience and their parents equally engaged with the show.

“I would like to extend my condolences to John’s family at this sad time.”

People have taken to social media to lament the loss of an Aussie TV icon.

One person wrote: “Such a big part of countless kids’ childhoods, 1970-1999! (Lots of parents’ days were made too with his naughty jokes.) I think Australians deserve the day off.”

Another added: “Rest In Peace to an absolute king. Literally would not have my personality without him showing me how taking the piss can come from deep love.”

A third said: “This is really sad. Our kids, like so many others, grew up on Play School, ‘There’s a Bear in There’ and John and Bonita. John took visual delight in bringing delight to little ones everywhere. Big Ted will be shedding lots of tears today. Vale John.”

The beloved and long-running children’s entertainer was a host on the legendary TV show for nearly three decades.

During that time, he managed to appear in more than 350 episodes of Play School before retiring in 1999.

His undeniable charm and humour earned him the nickname ‘Naughty John’.

Hamblin came back to the programme in 2016 for the show’s 50th anniversary special.

In addition to appearing on Play School, Hamblin also appeared on other Australian TV shows likeThe Young Doctors, The Young and the Restless and A Country Practice.