Brian “Hendo” Henderson has died aged 89 after a long battle with cancer

Legendary television and radio star Brian Henderson has died after a long battle with cancer, aged 89.

Today Extra co-host David Campbell shared the news on Twitter this morning, writing that the Gold Logie-winning media personality and former host of Bandstand was a “legendary broadcaster and true gentleman”.

Karl Stefanovic also announced the sad news live on the Today show as tributes began to flood social media.

“Brian was a much-loved member of the Nine family, hosting the Sydney weeknight news from 1957 until his retirement in 2002, becoming Australia’s longest-serving news presenter,” Karl said.

“He also hosted Bandstand for many years. I knew him – an absolute legend, a gentleman and a total professional who provided guidance and inspiration for many generations who followed. We loved him.”

“Hendo”, as he was known in the industry, died after his fifth battle with the disease, telling Nine News last year that he chose not to have surgery following his kidney cancer diagnosis.

“There’s not much point having another operation, I don’t want to be cut open again,” he said of the decision.

“It wasn’t hard at all, and I’m not a hero for making (the decision). I don’t advocate it for everybody, it just suits me. At the age I am and the state of health I enjoy, I’d rather not have the operation.”

The former news presenter went on to tell The Daily Telegraph he’d had a “wonderful life”, and wanted to spend his last days with his loved ones.

The veteran news anchor’s fourth cancer battle was in 2014, telling New Idea at the time: “I’ve survived battles with bowel, prostate and skin cancer, this time around it’s throat cancer.”

Hendo, who retired in 2002, was best known for his work with the Nine Network and various TV presenting gigs, including hosting live variety show Bandstand from 1958 to 1972.

He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Mardi.

The couple met when Mardi was only 16, and Brian was 33, and her parents forbid them to marry until she had turned 18.

The New Zealand-born media personality leaves behind children Nicole, 50, and Jody, 48.