Radio legend Darren Scott dies at 61 after battling cancer

Veteran South African radio DJ and sports broadcaster Darren Scott has passed away at the age of 61.

Scott had been battling an aggressive form of skin cancer, which had resurfaced several times over the years.

Tributes honouring Scott’s life flooded social media on Tuesday following news of his passing.

Radio legend

Scott made his mark at some of the country’s most recognisable radio stations, including Radio Bop, 5FM, Jacaranda, East Coast Radio, and eventually, HOT 102.7FM.

Hot FM said they are distraught by Scott’s passing.

“The last few months have been very difficult for Darren with numerous hospital stays. Darren will be remembered for his passion for radio, wit, creativity and charitable work.

“He will be missed by all of us at Hot 1027 and listeners across the country. Our condolences go out to Darren’s boys, Mark and Matthew, and the rest of the family. Rest in peace Darren. We will miss you,” the station said.

ALSO READ: ‘I’m back in SA — I have to work to pay for treatment’: Darren Scott on his cancer battle

Cancer

The veteran broadcaster, who was in the United States with his children, said he had to return to South Africa to work in order to fund his cancer treatment.

Scott was first diagnosed with melanoma, an aggressive form of skin cancer, in 1986.

In a Facebook post in December last year, Scott shared that he had been living with melanoma for 38 years.

“Melanoma is an invasive skin cancer, with a very high risk of death. While early-stage melanoma is treatable, late-stage cases remain a different story, even with medical advancements,” he shared.

Last month, his ex-wife, Sarah-Kate Accetta, launched a BackaBuddy campaign to help cover the radio legend’s medical expenses.

The campaign raised at least R410,237 of its R960,000 goal.

ALSO READ: Stars shine for Darren Scott: A benefit concert to honour South Africa’s beloved broadcaster