Died On This Date (October 22, 2009) Don Lane / U.S. Born Australian TV Host

Don Lane (Born Morton Isaacson)
November 13, 1933 – October 22, 2009

Photo by Trevor Dallen
Photo by Trevor Dallen

Don Lane was a popular entertainer in Australia during the ’60s, ’70s and ’80s.  Born in New York City, Lane began his career singing in nightclubs from New York to Hawaii.  During the early part of his career, he performed with the likes of Sammy Davis, Jr. and Wayne Newton.  He eventually moved to Australia where he would host their version of The Tonight Show.  The very popular Don Lane Show hosted such musical guests as Tom Waits and David Bowie.  Lane won several Logie Awards throughout his career.  The Logie is Australian television’s equivalent of the Emmy.  During the ’90s, Lane became a popular sportscaster in Australia, often hosting broadcasts of NFL games.  By 2008, Lane was suffering from Alzheimer’s Disease and living in a care facility.  He passed away on October 22, 2009 at the age of 75.