Queensland-based ex-rugby league commentator and television personality Billy J Smith has died.
Smith, 73, was taken to the Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital on Tuesday night after suffering a fall but never regained consciousness.
Smith's family made the decision to turn off life support about 1pm on Wednesday.
Today Queensland lost a legend of Radio and TV. Farewell Billy J. Smith.
— Peter Doherty (@PeterDoherty7) February 27, 2019
I've spent the day in our archive pulling out old film. I hope the tribute does Billy justice. @7NewsBrisbane tonight at 6pm. pic.twitter.com/KDpxYsRXtc
Smith made his name calling rugby league in Brisbane for radio and television in the 1970s and 80s and also hosted popular game show "It's a Knockout" between 1985 and 1987.
Just heard It’s a Knockout host Billy J Smith has passed away. #Ripbilly pic.twitter.com/F3kqYtzM8L
— Steven Wardill (@stevenwardill) February 27, 2019
After finishing with Brisbane radio station 4BC's nightly Sports Tonight show 10 years ago, Smith had been working as a compere for lunches and sporting functions.
Vale Billy J Smith. One of the greats pic.twitter.com/7ngbSUsUkk
— Dan Ginnane (@DanGinnane) February 27, 2019
© AAP 2019
