- Dolly Dyer
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Dolly Dyer (1921 – 25 December 2004), was an Australian radio and TV personality, and wife of fellow game-show host, Bob Dyer.
Contents
Early life
She was born Thelma Phoebe McLean, and grew up in Sydney's eastern suburbs. Her father died when she was young and she was raised by her mother. The family nickname was "Mack" so she took the name Dolly Mack when she was employed as a showgirl in Sydney's Tivoli Theatre in 1940.
She met her husband there, literally running into him in a doorway. They married within two weeks at St John's, Darlinghurst.
Entertainment career
During World War II, Dolly and Bob entertained Allied troops, including performing in South Pacific and New Guinea war zones.
After the war, Bob began the radio version of Pick a Box, which went to television in the late 50s. Dolly appeared with him, introducing contestants and being a sidekick to Bob's humour.
Retirement
They both retired in 1971, shortly before the last episode of Pick-a-Box was screened.
That year, Bob and Dolly were awarded a Special Gold Logie In Recognition Of Their Contribution To Australian TV. Both were listed on the Queen's Birthday Honours list, with Dolly being appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE).[citation needed] (Bob was not eligible for a substantive award as he was an American citizen, but was appointed an Honorary Officer of the Order)
In retirement, Dolly and her husband found time for their shared love of deep-sea fishing. They both broke several records, with Dolly breaking a 12 year women's record for a black marlin weighing 297 kilograms.
After Bob's death in 1984, Dolly took up dancing, winning several medals for her performances.
Death
Dolly Dyer died of a stroke on Christmas Day, 2004.
References
- http://www.smh.com.au/news/Obituaries/An-elegant-and-affable-TV-sidekick/2005/02/14/1108229928709.html
- http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/national/dyer-consequences-harbourfront-estate-to-set-a-mosman-record-20091023-hdd0.html
- http://www.bdb.co.za/shackle/articles/dolly_dyer.htm
- http://www.knowfirst.info/forums/showthread.php?t=961
Categories:- 1921 births
- 2004 deaths
- Australian television personalities
- Gold Logie winners
- Australian game show hosts
- Fishers
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