SYDNEY, Australia – Australian television personality Fiona MacDonald, known for her roles on the children’s show Wombat and the game show It’s a Knockout, has died at the age of 67.
MacDonald, who had been diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND) three years ago, announced her passing in a heartfelt Instagram post shared by her sister Kylie on Wednesday, October 2, 2024.
“Farewell, my friends. My sister Kylie is posting this because I have left the building—hopefully, I’m looking down from a cloud,” MacDonald wrote.
“Last night brought an end to a very tough few months. Was very peaceful, the boys [sons Harry and Rafe] and Kylie stayed with me to say goodbye. While I’ve never wanted to die, the thought of leaving my tortured body was a relief.”
MacDonald had battled the rare, degenerative disease that progressively damages parts of the nervous system, and for which there is no known cure.
In her post, she revealed that her condition had severely impacted her ability to eat, leaving her “slowly starving.”
Despite the physical toll, MacDonald’s message conveyed gratitude for the support of her family and friends, and she expressed hope for an eventual reunion, writing, “Let’s not call it goodbye as I hope to see you again on the other side. I carry your love and laughter with me and hope you’ll remember mine.”
Fiona MacDonald was the sister of fellow Australian TV host Jacki MacDonald.
Her passing has been met with an outpouring of tributes from fans and colleagues who remember her warmth, humour, and significant contributions to Australian television.
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