Fans rally behind AFL icon and media personality Rex Hunt following devastating diagnosis

A significant health setback has befallen the esteemed AFL icon, Rex Hunt.

The former champion of Richmond and St Kilda, who later gained fame as a distinguished sports commentator and TV presenter, has been diagnosed with dementia.

Hunt’s wife Lydia provided the devastating health update to The Herald Sun, revealing that his “family and are giving him love and support” during what is surely a difficult time.

“He is fit and in good spirits and looking forward to going fishing again soon,” she told the publication.

“Thousands of families around Australia have loved ones living with dementia and we are no different from any of them.

“We are so very grateful for the constant support of Rex’s doctors and our friends.”

The news has sparked an outpouring of support and well-wishes for the legendary figure who has entertained and inspired generations with his passion for the game and larger-than-life personality.

Its a insidious disease going through it with my oldman absolutely shattering to watch , wishing his family all the best

— coby hewitt (@cobyhewitt1) December 13, 2023

Legend Rex, all the best mate…

— jabba (@jabbs444) December 13, 2023

No doubt this is a very tough day for Rex’s family. Just know that so many people wish you well. All the best Rex.

— Jane Marrie (@JM61012) December 13, 2023

Thank your mother for the rabbits! Sad news to hear old Rexy has dementia. Well wishes to Rex and his family.

— Dan Lambert (@DfusedCell) December 13, 2023

All the best Rex take care afl fans love your commentary.

— Garry (@i_hate_dan1) December 13, 2023

Hunt made a name for himself playing Australian Rules football, making his debut in the then Victorian Football League (VFL) in 1968.

He was part of Richmond’s premiership sides in 1969 and 1973 and in 1974, Hunt moved to the Geelong Football Club in 1974 where he played 32 games for the club before moving back to Melbourne and playing with St Kilda.

He retired from VFL football at the end of the 1978 season, but continued to play in the lower-level VFA in 1980 and 1981 with Sandringham.

Following his retirement from his playing career, Hunt become a popular commentator for 3AW and also hosted a number of panel shows such as the Sportsworld Footy Panel and I’m Rex Hunt and You’re Not.

Hunt also hosted Rex Hunt’s Fishing Adventures which aired from 1992 until 2004 on the Seven Network.