Darren Scott Succumbs to Cancer After Decades-Long Battle

South Africa is reeling from the news of the passing of beloved radio veteran Darren Scott, who lost his courageous battle with stage 4 malignant melanoma in the early hours of Tuesday, May 27, 2025. Scott, aged 61, a familiar and cherished voice across the nation’s airwaves for over four decades, leaves behind an immeasurable void in the hearts of his family, colleagues, and a vast legion of listeners.

The news was confirmed by his current employer, HOT 102.7FM, where Scott was a cornerstone of their programming, most recently hosting “The Just Plain Drive” show. His passing marks the end of a remarkable career and an incredibly personal and public fight against an aggressive form of skin cancer first diagnosed nearly 40 years ago, in 1986.

Darren Scott wasn’t just a radio presenter; he was an institution. His career spanned across iconic stations including Radio Bop, 5FM, Jacaranda FM, East Coast Radio, 702, OFM, and ultimately, HOT 102.7FM. Renowned for his warm presence, quick wit, and encyclopaedic knowledge, particularly of sports, Scott possessed that rare and uncanny ability to connect with his audience, making each listener feel as though he was speaking directly to them.

Colleagues and friends have been quick to share their heartfelt tributes, underscoring Scott’s profound impact on the industry and those around him. Simon Parkinson, Breakfast presenter at HOT 102.7FM, described him as “the most dedicated radio person I’ve ever known,” recalling a time when Scott was doing “two live shows a day — breakfast in one province and drive in another. Who does six hours of live radio every day? Darren Scott.”

Shane “Duke” Wellington echoed this sentiment, praising Scott’s “gift that makes you feel like he’s speaking directly to you.” Lloyd Madurai, Founder of HOT 102.7FM, recounted how Scott was the first person he called when starting the original HOT brand, saying, “‘I’m in. Let’s go.’ And I saw the happiness in Darren again.”

Beyond the microphone, Scott’s infectious laughter and wisdom were cherished by those who worked with him. Friend and colleague Ian F noted, “There was never a moment together without a funny chirp or a laugh. It was always about feelgood moments.” Longtime friend Will Scott revealed the deep personal connection: “Darren was my best friend for 15 years before we ever worked together professionally… He played a huge role in me pursuing a career in radio.”

Last year, a testament to his enduring legacy, Darren Scott was inducted into The Radio Awards Hall of Fame, a fitting honour for a man who dedicated his life to the medium he loved. This recognition came amidst his ongoing health challenges, highlighting his unwavering passion and resilience.

Scott’s battle with melanoma was a long and arduous one, marked by numerous surgeries, recurrences, and difficult treatments. Despite the immense physical toll, he often shared his journey with candour, finding strength in his family and the unwavering support of his community. Just recently, he shared emotional moments from a trip to the USA to visit his sons, Mark and Matthew, who now mourn his loss alongside his father and countless admirers.

His former wife, Sarah-Kate Accetta, spearheaded a crowdfunding campaign that garnered significant support from the public and industry peers, demonstrating the widespread affection and concern for Scott. A benefit concert, “The Just Plain Party,” saw a constellation of South African music and radio talent come together to raise funds for his medical expenses, a true testament to the solidarity within the broadcasting community.

Darren Scott’s passing is not just the loss of a voice; it’s the silencing of a true broadcast icon, a pioneer who shaped the South African radio landscape. His passion, wit, and unique ability to connect will be profoundly missed. As tributes continue to pour in from across the country, one thing is clear: Darren Scott may have left the airwaves, but his legacy as “the man who made radio personal” will resonate for generations to come.

Details regarding memorial arrangements are expected to be announced in due course.