Darren Scott and his iconic voice echoed through radios for over 40 years… now, South Africans are echoing their love back as they honour a man who brought light, laughter and warmth to countless lives.
South Africa (27 May 2025) – South Africa is celebrating the life of Darren Scott, a veteran radio presenter whose iconic voice and warm spirit touched millions. Scott sadly passed away on 27 May 2025 after a courageous battle with stage four melanoma. In his 61 years, he became more than just a radio host, he was a household name and a symbol of unity and positivity for many.
Today, even in mourning, the nation remembers him with overwhelming love, fond memories, and gratitude for his immeasurable contributions.
A Four-Decade Legacy on Air
Darren Scott’s broadcasting career spanned over 40 years, during which he became a familiar voice in homes and cars across South Africa. He launched his career in the early 1980s and went on to work at some of the country’s biggest radio stations, from Capital Radio 604 and Radio Bop to 5FM, East Coast Radio, and most recently HOT 102.7FM. He even hosted the popular “Just Plain Breakfast” show on Jacaranda FM in the early 2000s, making morning commutes more enjoyable for countless listeners.
Over the decades, Darren informed, entertained, and connected with audiences through music, talk, sport, and laughter. In 2024, he marked an astonishing 40 years in radio and was rightfully inducted into the Radio Awards Hall of Fame, cementing his status as a South African broadcast legend.
Colleagues and listeners alike describe Darren as a true broadcast icon and a pioneer who helped shape the local radio landscape. He had an encyclopaedic knowledge of sports and a quick wit that made every show engaging. If you ever found yourself laughing in traffic at his on-air antics or learning a new sports fact during a big game weekend, you weren’t alone, Darren had a knack for bringing joy and insight to everyone tuning in.
Beyond the microphone, he also mentored younger presenters and was known for his generosity and kindness off-air. “He is so used to being the one who is helping others,” noted his ex-wife, Sarah-Kate Accetta, highlighting Darren’s natural tendency to uplift those around him. This caring nature made him not just a radio star, but a beloved figure in his community.
A Nation Rallies: No Legend Fights Alone
When Darren was diagnosed with an aggressive cancer recurrence, South Africans responded with an outpouring of support that speaks to the deep affection the nation had for him.
In early 2025, as Darren faced mounting medical bills for life-saving treatments, his friends, family, and fans stepped up in a big way. Sarah-Kate Accetta, his ex-wife and close friend, launched a BackaBuddy crowdfunding campaign to help cover his medical expenses.
Donations flooded in almost immediately, over R130,000 was raised in just the first 48 hours. Within a few days the fund grew to more than R500,000 thanks to the public’s overwhelming support and it continued climbing towards its goal of R960,000.
This incredible generosity left Darren and his family profoundly moved and grateful.
“I cannot put into words how humbling and heartwarming it has been since I made Darren’s Back-a-Buddy post. From the bottom of my heart, thank you!”
Sarah-Kate wrote in an update, thanking every person who shared, donated or even left a kind comment. “You are the Ubuntu that the USA will never know!” she added, praising the uniquely South African spirit of community that rallied behind Darren.
Support for Darren went beyond monetary donations. The radio and music industry united to honour their friend and colleague in his time of need. Fellow presenters from various stations planned special events, and an all-star benefit concert aptly titled “Benefit for Darren – No Legend Fights Alone” was organised to raise funds and lift Darren’s spirits.
On 14 May 2025, iconic South African artists including Ard Matthews, Jesse Clegg, Louise Carver, Kurt Darren, and band Just Jinjer took to the stage alongside comedians like Dave Levinsohn and Mark Banks – all performing in tribute to Darren.
It was an unforgettable night of music, memories and hope, exemplifying the message that when one of South Africa’s most iconic voices needed help, the nation didn’t hesitate to answer the call. Darren’s long-time listeners turned up, his peers volunteered their talents, and even his current radio home, HOT 102.7FM, pledged ongoing support, covering costly treatments and ensuring he stayed on full salary while he focused on his health.
This communal embrace showed Darren that he was not fighting alone; an entire country was in his corner, echoing back the love he had broadcast for years.
Remembering the Warmth of Darren’s Spirit
Throughout his battle, Darren remained humble and deeply appreciative of the love surrounding him. He publicly thanked South Africans for their support as he fought bravely, and despite health setbacks he even returned to the airwaves whenever he could, determined to continue doing what he loved – connecting with listeners.
Those close to him shared how much the encouragement meant to Darren. The flood of messages and prayers not only buoyed his spirits, but also brought comfort to his family. According to Sarah-Kate, even their sons found solace in seeing how cherished their father was by so many people during his fight. In her words, Darren was “humbled” by the nationwide show of kindness, and he drew strength from every gesture of support.
In the wake of his passing, Sarah-Kate expressed deep gratitude for the compassion and generosity that surrounded Darren in his final chapter. She has kindly asked that everyone keep Darren’s children, Mark and Matthew, in their thoughts and prayers in the days ahead. The two boys, whom Darren adored, now carry forward their father’s legacy of resilience and positivity. They, along with all of South Africa, have been uplifted by the incredible example of unity and love that Darren’s journey inspired.
Though Darren Scott has signed off for the last time, his legacy continues to shine brightly. Tributes are pouring from listeners, colleagues and friends, celebrating his life and the joy he brought to the airwaves. Many recall his infectious laugh, his passion for music and sports, and the genuine warmth that made everyone feel like part of one big radio family.
Thank you, Darren, for the good times and good things, you will be dearly missed, but never forgotten. South Africa is better for having shared the journey with you.
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