From rejection to hold: How Larry Emdur defied the odds to win the 2024 Logie

Larry Emdur, a stalwart of Australian television, secured the coveted Gold Logie at the 2024 TV WEEK Logie Awards, capping off a remarkable 40-year career in the industry. This prestigious accolade, awarded for the Most Popular Personality on Australian Television, is a significant recognition of Emdur’s enduring appeal and connection with the Australian audience.

Emdur’s journey to the Gold Logie was not without competition. He was up against a formidable array of nominees, including industry heavyweights like Sonia Kruger, Asher Keddie, Tony Armstrong, Julia Morris, Robert Irwin, and Andy Lee. The tension was palpable as the winner was announced, with Emdur emerging as the victor, much to the delight of his fans and peers.

In his acceptance speech, Emdur, known for his wit and down-to-earth personality, mixed humor with heartfelt gratitude. Reflecting on his many years attending the Logies without a win, he quipped about his earlier vow to get the initials of his fellow nominees tattooed on his backside if he were to win—an offer that both amused the audience and underscored his disbelief at finally securing the top prize.

The night was particularly special for Emdur, as he also won his first-ever Logie earlier in the evening—the Bert Newton Award for Most Popular Presenter. This dual recognition was a testament to his versatility and popularity, having hosted both The Morning Show alongside Kylie Gillies for 17 years and The Chase Australia for three years. Emdur’s speech highlighted his deep love for television, a career he described as “exciting, fun, and different every day,” and his gratitude for the support of his family, especially his wife Sylvie, who has been by his side through the highs and lows of his career​.

Emdur’s win also marked a milestone for Australian television, as his career has been emblematic of the changing landscape of the industry. He has experienced the highs of long-running shows and the lows of cancellations, yet he has always managed to bounce back, earning him a reputation as a resilient and beloved figure in the industry. His humorous self-reflection on being “the most axed guy on TV” resonated with many, highlighting his ability to laugh at the ups and downs of his career.

Throughout the night, social media buzzed with congratulatory messages from fans and fellow celebrities, celebrating Emdur’s well-deserved win. His genuine connection with viewers and his ability to remain relevant in a rapidly evolving industry were key themes in the outpouring of support.

Larry Emdur’s Gold Logie win in 2024 is not just a personal triumph but also a reflection of his significant contribution to Australian television over the past four decades. His journey from hosting game shows like The Price Is Right to becoming a household name as the face of The Morning Show and The Chase Australia is a testament to his talent, resilience, and unwavering passion for television​.

As Emdur continues to enjoy his success, this Gold Logie win will undoubtedly be remembered as a highlight of his illustrious career, marking him as one of Australia’s most cherished television personalities.