Explosive Secret Hollywood Affair of Late Derryn Hinch Finally Exposed at State Funeral
In a farewell ceremony befitting Australia’s most infamous media maverick, the state funeral of late radio legend Derryn Hinch in Melbourne has unlocked decades-old vaults, revealing a stunning, previously undisclosed Hollywood romance with iconic superstar Bette Midler.
The sensational disclosure emerged during a poignant and revealing speech delivered by former colleague Tony Tardio at the gathering of media stalwarts, political figures, and entertainment icons who assembled to honor the broadcaster, who passed away peacefully in his sleep on July 10 at the age of 82 following an extended health battle. As mourners reflected on a tumultuous life that spanned investigative journalism, print editing, talkback radio dominance, and federal politics, Tardio shocked attendees by pulling back the curtain on an alleged past encounter between Hinch and Midler that occurred over half a century ago following a high-profile interview. The revelation instantly set the news cycle ablaze, underscoring Hinch’s lifelong knack for generating headlines long after his initial broadcasts.
A Life Defined by Controversy and Unfiltered Truth
Affectionately and famously dubbed the “human headline”—a moniker he embraced with characteristic vigor—Hinch commanded the Australian airwaves for decades, most notably through his unfiltered talkback broadcasts on Melbourne radio station 3AW. His career was built on breaking taboos, challenging authority, and courting controversy across both state and national arenas. Fittingly, his state funeral drew an impressive roster of Australian entertainment royalty and political heavyweights, including prominent television presenters Ray Martin and Jennifer Keyte, entertainers Rhonda Burchmore, Denis Walter, Steve Vizard, and Greg Evans, alongside former Crown executive Ann Peacock. Tributes poured in from across the political spectrum, with formal acknowledgements from Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Opposition Leader Angus Taylor reflecting the profound, polarizing imprint Hinch left on national public life.
“Most people do not like making speeches at funerals. I’m no exception, but Derryn made me promise over-and-over again that I would and so here I am.” — Jacki Weaver
The proceedings also featured a touching digital tribute from acclaimed Australian actress Jacki Weaver, Hinch’s third wife, who remained a steadfast friend until his final moments, receiving a text message from the broadcaster on the very night of his passing. Unable to attend due to active filming commitments in Western Australia, Weaver delivered a witty and emotionally resonant address that acknowledged Hinch’s famously vibrant romantic history, which included four marriages and a long line of high-profile partners, culminating in his most recent relationship with former actress Lynda Stoner, who sat among the mourners.
The Legacy of an Indomitable Media Icon
The unearthing of the Bette Midler anecdote serves as a fitting postscript to a career that continually blurred the lines between hard-hitting journalism and captivating public spectacle. From his early days migrating from New Zealand to climb the ranks as editor of The Sun to his formidable tenure as a crusading radio broadcaster and senator, Hinch operated under a distinct set of rules. His ability to remain at the epicenter of cultural conversation, even in death, highlights a dying breed of traditional media personalities who commanded undivided national attention.
Ultimately, the Melbourne state funeral transcended a standard memorial service, transforming into a grand retrospective of an extraordinary media epoch. As political leaders, lifelong colleagues, and former partners united to pay their final respects, Derryn Hinch proved once again that his life story would continue to fascinate, surprise, and captivate the Australian public long after the microphones were finally powered down.