Derryn Hinch is said to have had a brief romantic fling with iconic Hollywood star Bette Midler many years ago.
The Australian radio legend died on July 10 aged 82 and his life was remembered on Monday at a state funeral in Melbourne, where loved ones shared anecdotes about him.
One such story came from his former colleague Tony Tardio, who claimed Hinch once had a fling with Midler, 80, after he interviewed her 53 years ago, according to News.com.au.
‘The only thing history owes the dead is the truth,’ Tardio said during a speech he made in honour of Hinch at the funeral.
‘Derryn and Bette Midler engaged in a bit of horizontal romper after that interview. And that is the truth.’
Meanwhile, Australian actress Jacki Weaver also shared a message for the fellow former lovers of Hinch in an emotional tribute to her ex-husband.
Derryn Hinch is said to have had a brief romantic fling with iconic Hollywood star Bette Midler many years ago
A who’s who of Australian media and entertainment stalwarts gathered to farewell the veteran broadcaster, who died in his sleep on July 10 at the age of 82 following a lengthy health struggle.
The state funeral for the former senator attracted notable figures, from news presenters Ray Martin and Jennifer Keyte, to entertainers Rhonda Burchmore, Denis Walter, Steve Vizard and Greg Evans, and former Crown executive Ann Peacock.
Hinch, who married four times, was renowned for his string of headline-grabbing romances.
His third wife, Weaver, could not attend due to filming commitments in Western Australia but recorded a tribute.
She had remained close friends with Hinch, who texted her on the night of his death.
‘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,’ Weaver began.
‘I want to start by acknowledging sincerely and warmly all the women that Derryn loved and who loved him in return. Hello.
‘I won’t mention you individually, we don’t have the time. In the immortal words of Steven Spielberg, “We’re going to need a bigger boat.”‘
One such story came from his former colleague Tony Tardio, who claimed Hinch once had a fling with Midler, 80, after he interviewed her 53 years ago, according to News.com.au
Hinch’s most recent partner, former actress Lynda Stoner, was among the mourners in attendance.
Hinch initially moved from New Zealand to Australia to pursue a career in journalism, climbing the ranks to become editor of The Sun, before turning to a career in radio.
He became known as the ‘human headline’ – a moniker he enthusiastically adopted – for his outspoken and often controversial opinions.
While commanding the airwaves for decades as a talkback radio host on Melbourne radio station 3AW, Hinch became known for his uninhibited takes and a tendency to court controversy.
His passing drew tributes from a broad range of public figures spanning the political spectrum, including Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Opposition Leader Angus Taylor.