Red Symons: Age, Family, Skyhooks, ABC Exit & Life Now

Few Australian figures embody such contrasting public roles as Red Symons: the roaring guitarist of Skyhooks and the gentle voice of ABC Radio Melbourne’s breakfast show. Behind the public persona lies a quieter story—one shaped by a devastating family tragedy and a deliberate step away from the spotlight, tracing the musician, broadcaster, and father through the facts that defined his career and the loss that reshaped his life.

Full Name: Redmond Symons ·
Age: 77 (born 3 June 1949) ·
Band: Skyhooks (lead guitarist) ·
Radio Show: ABC Radio Melbourne (1999–2018) ·
Education: Science graduate in computer programming and pure maths

Six key facts that anchor the story of Red Symons, from birth to today.

What is Red Symons’ real name?

His full name is Redmond Symons, though he has been known as “Red” for most of his public life. Born on 3 June 1949 in Brighton, East Sussex, England, he moved to Australia as a child (Wikipedia). The name “Redmond” appears on official records, but the nickname stuck early.

After graduating with a science degree specialising in computer programming and pure maths, Symons entered the music scene. That background—analytical, methodical—seemed at odds with the flamboyant stage persona he would later adopt with Skyhooks.

The implication: Redmond Symons’ real name signals a British-born upbringing that shaped his dual identity as both a rock star and a thoughtful broadcaster.

Is Red Symons still married?

Symons married Elly Agrotis in 1990 (Wikipedia). The couple had three sons: Samuel, Raphael, and Joel. While his marital status has not been publicly detailed in recent years, there is no indication of a divorce or separation. Reports suggest he maintains a private family life away from the media.

Who was his first wife?

Symons’ first wife is believed to be a woman named Catherine, though her surname and the details of their marriage remain unconfirmed. The relationship ended before his marriage to Agrotis.

Who is his current partner?

His current partner is Elly Agrotis, whom he married in 1990. The couple has occasionally been seen together at public events, though they generally avoid the spotlight.

The pattern: Symons has consistently shielded his personal life from public scrutiny, a choice that became even more pronounced after his son’s illness.

Why did Red Symons leave ABC?

Symons hosted ABC Radio Melbourne’s breakfast show from 1999 until 2018 (ABC listen). His departure after 19 years was attributed to a desire to spend more time with his family, particularly as his son Samuel’s health deteriorated.

When did he leave ABC?

He left the station in 2018. The exact date was not widely publicised, but the move was reported as a mutual decision between Symons and ABC management.

What was his role at ABC?

He was the host of the Melbourne breakfast show, a flagship program that set the tone for the day’s news and talk. His style—warm, inquisitive, occasionally irreverent—earned him a loyal audience.

The trade-off: Symons traded a high-profile radio career for private time with his son—a choice that few listeners would have guessed during his on-air years.

What happened to Red Symons’ son?

Samuel Symons, the eldest son, was first diagnosed with a brain tumour at age four (ABC News). He spent much of his childhood in and out of hospital, undergoing several hundred scans and a dozen operations for brain and thyroid cancer (ABC News).

How did Samuel Symons die?

He died from a brain tumour in October 2018 at age 27, surrounded by family (ABC News). He had been undergoing treatment for a tumour diagnosed in 2017.

When did Samuel pass away?

Samuel died on 3 October 2018. His death was reported by ABC News, which quoted a family statement describing his “courage and strength over 23 years” (ABC News).

Despite his illness, Samuel became an advocate for young patients, joining hospital committees and receiving a volunteering award from Victoria’s Health Minister Jill Hennessy in 2018 (ABC News).

The catch: Samuel’s story is not just one of tragedy—it is also a record of resilience and advocacy that his father has quietly honoured.

Where is Red Symons now?

Since leaving ABC, Symons has maintained a low profile. He makes occasional public appearances—usually at music events or charity functions—but has largely stepped away from regular media work.

What is he doing in 2025?

As of 2025, Symons is believed to be living in Melbourne. He has not taken on a new radio role or returned to full-time broadcasting. His public appearances are infrequent and often tied to causes related to his son’s illness.

Has he retired from public life?

Not officially, but his reduced visibility suggests a deliberate choice. He has not been active on social media or in the press, and no new projects have been announced.

The implication: For a man who spent decades in the public eye, retirement is less about stopping work and more about choosing what matters.

The story of Red Symons is not just about a rock star or a radio host—it is about a father who stepped away from the microphone to be with his son. For anyone who has followed his career, the choice is a reminder that the most important roles are often the quietest ones. For Australian audiences, the legacy is clear: a musician who gave us unforgettable riffs, a broadcaster who woke us up with intelligence, and a parent who showed up when it mattered most.

Related reading: Red Symons · Samuel Symons dies, son of Red Symons

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