Beloved children’s entertainer Michael “Gibbo” Gibson, best known for his work on Agro’s Cartoon Connection, has died following a battle with dementia.
Gibson was diagnosed with the illness 18 months ago, before passing away on Monday. He was 69.
Agro’s Cartoon Connection was a top-rated children’s show which ran from 1990 to 1997 on the Seven network.
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It was hosted by a crazy-looking puppet known as Agro — operated and voiced by Jamie Dunn — alongside co-hosts Ann-Maree Biggar, from 1990 to 1994, and Terasa Livington, from 1995 to 1997.
Gibson both produced and featured on the show as his character “Gibbo”, usually wearing painter’s overalls.
His widow, Carol, confirmed Gibson’s death via social media.
“Many of you may know by now of the passing of my lovely husband Michael,” she wrote on Facebook.
“He left us after another dementia battle and, while it was sad to watch, I’m grateful he’s now free. He was the brightest of us and we were so fortunate to share his time.”
Agro puppeteer Dunn also shared a tribute via social media.
“Farewell my funny friend. You were hilarious 100 per cent of the time! I have nothing but wonderful memories of you,” he wrote on Instagram.
Gibson studied under veteran Australian TV and radio announcer Max Rowley, before in 1977 moving onto NIDA where he studied alongside Hollywood stars Mel Gibson and Judy Davis.
He went on to work at the Nine Network in Brisbane as promotions manager. He also wrote and performed comedy on radio stations, including B105.
He is survived by Carol and their two children.