Fiona MacDonald, beloved former children’s TV host, died at age 67 after a two-year struggle with motor neurone disease (MND). Known for her charismatic presence on Australian television in the 1980s, MacDonald’s work on Wombat and It’s a Knockout left a lasting impact on generations of viewers. Diagnosed with MND in 2021, she chose to announce her own passing on social media, leaving an enduring message of resilience and humour.
A Star of Australian Children’s Television
Born and raised on a cattle property in Blackall, Queensland, Fiona MacDonald grew up immersed in the Australian outback. Alongside her sister, Jacki MacDonald, she became a staple of Australian television in the 1980s, charming audiences with her witty and vibrant personality.
Fiona MacDonald’s popularity soared through her work on Wombat, where she co-hosted with a scruffy puppet named Agro. The children’s TV show quickly became an Australian favourite, with MacDonald’s lively interactions endearing her to young viewers and parents alike. In 1987, she broadened her repertoire, hosting It’s a Knockout, a zany game show filled with colour and high energy, captivating audiences across the country.
The Diagnosis and Its Toll
MacDonald’s life took a heartbreaking turn in 2021 when doctors diagnosed her with motor neurone disease, a progressive neurological condition. MND affects the body’s ability to control muscles, ultimately leading to loss of mobility, speech, and eventually, essential functions like swallowing and breathing. Despite the daunting challenges of the diagnosis, Fiona MacDonald continued to face life with determination and grace.
In a 2023 interview with Australian Story, MacDonald spoke candidly about the cruel effects of MND. “Stealing the power of all muscles inch by inch until you can’t walk, can’t hold hands, can’t talk, swallow or breathe,” she explained. Using a computerised voice to communicate, she expressed the devastating reality of the illness. “Then you die. There is no treatment, no cure,” she said, poignantly summarising her experience with MND.
Facing Death with Courage and Humour
MacDonald, known for her black humour, continued to confront her illness with her trademark wit and resilience. Towards the end, she made the difficult decision to cease medical supports, describing her relief in her farewell post. “While I’ve never wanted to die, the thought of leaving my tortured body was a relief,” she wrote, adding that the past few months had been “very tough.”
Her sister, Kylie, posted MacDonald’s final message on Instagram, stating, “my sister Kylie is posting this because I have left the building.” Family members, including her two sons, Harry and Rafe, and her sister, were with her to say goodbye. This choice of peaceful departure reflected Fiona MacDonald’s courage in the face of an insurmountable challenge.
Raising Awareness and Funds for MND Research
Following her diagnosis, MacDonald joined forces with her sister Jacki MacDonald to raise funds and awareness for motor neurone disease research. The sisters undertook a tour across Australia, driving from town to town to support MND Australia, the leading national body for research and support. MacDonald’s neurologist, Professor Dominic Rowe, praised her dedication, noting her determination to help others despite her own struggles. “She put her armour back on, pulled herself together, and with a bit of a ‘f*** you’ approach, said, ‘This is what I’m going to do,’” Rowe shared.
Her long-time colleague, children’s TV producer Dina Browne, remembered her as “an incredibly funny, quick-witted woman.” Browne reflected on the hardship Fiona MacDonald faced with MND, describing it as “hideously difficult” for such a vibrant personality. Browne and MacDonald remained close friends throughout the years, united by their passion for children’s television and storytelling.
A Legacy of Laughter and Storytelling
ABC presenter Jenny Woodward, who worked alongside Fiona MacDonald on Wombat, also paid tribute to her. “Fiona was one of those people who lit up the room when she walked in,” Woodward said, adding that MacDonald’s cheeky humour and infectious laugh made her a delight to work with. “She had a keen eye for a story and was a wonderful storyteller on camera and in real life.”
Beyond television, MacDonald built a career in the wine industry, where her natural ability to connect with people continued to shine. In the 1990s, she married, and her life was enriched by the arrival of her sons, Harry and Rafe. Her love for life, humour, and spirit of adventure remained a constant throughout her life.
Fiona MacDonald’s journey with MND may have ended, but her legacy lives on in the hearts of the many Australians she entertained and inspired. Her sister Jacki MacDonald, family, friends, and fans remember her not only for her TV achievements but also for her strength, resilience, and selfless commitment to MND research.
Remembering a Beloved Icon
Fiona MacDonald’s passing is a loss felt deeply within the Australian media and entertainment industry. Her iconic roles on Wombat and It’s a Knockout left an indelible mark on Australian television. Her courage in facing MND served as an inspiration, demonstrating that even in the face of unimaginable adversity, one can still make a positive impact.
As Australia mourns Fiona MacDonald, the country also honours her memory and contributions, remembering her as a beacon of laughter, storytelling, and strength. Her life stands as a testament to a woman who loved deeply, lived vibrantly, and gave generously.