Original title
Countdown
Released
11/8/1974
Origin country
AU
Genre
Talk
Production companies
ABC TV
Status
In production
Number of seasons
14
Number of episodes
37
Countdown was a long-running popular weekly Australian music television show broadcast by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation from 8 November 1974 until 19 July 1987. It was created by Executive Producer Michael Shrimpton, producer/director Robbie Weekes and record producer and music journalist Ian "Molly" Meldrum. Countdown was produced at the studios of the ABC in the Melbourne suburb of Ripponlea. Countdown was the most popular music program in Australian TV history. It was broadcast nationwide on Australia's government-owned broadcaster, the ABC and commanded a huge and loyal audience. It soon exerted a strong influence on radio programmers because of its audience and the amount of Australian content it featured. For most of the time it was on air, it also gained double exposure throughout the country by screening a new episode each Sunday evening, and then repeating it the following Saturday evening. The majority of performances on the show were lip synched.
The first season of Countdown aired in 1974. This season was broadcast in black & white. Only a few segments have survived to this day.
The 1975 season was a significant moment for Australian television, as the first episode of Countdown's second season was the first scheduled program to be officially broadcast in color on ABC TV. The transition to color coincided with the show's move to its iconic Sunday 6 pm slot, allowing artists to be seen in all their flamboyant glory and helping to boost the careers of many Australian and international acts.
First episode of rock program, Countdown, to be transmitted in colour opening titles Countdown. MCU John Farnham opening program vs live in studio Skyhooks singing Horror Movie C/A Skyhooks in Luna Park.
By 1976, Countdown had cemented itself as Australia’s premier music program. Sherbet dominated charts, Marcia Hines rose as a powerhouse voice, and the Bay City Rollers fueled teenage fandom. Molly Meldrum’s Humdrum segment shaped national music tastes, while the show’s format—performances, interviews, and guest hosts—kept audiences engaged. Countdown was now more than entertainment; it was the soundtrack of a generation.
Show compered by Daryl Braithwaite, assisted by Molly Meldrum (hatless), surrounded by studio guests like John Paul Young, Ol'55, and Sherbet. Interviews include Rockwell T. Jones, and Sherbet receives a "Golden Gull" award from the manager of new radio station 3MP, promoting Australian talent. Current Top Ten hits are discussed, though not listed—except for the number one hit, ABBA’s “Money Money Money,” which plays in full during the closing credits.
In 1977, Countdown reflected the growing diversity of pop and rock. Local acts like John Paul Young and the Ted Mulry Gang thrived, while international stars such as Blondie and ABBA captivated audiences. Molly Meldrum’s interviews added personality, and the program’s influence on radio playlists was undeniable. By the close of 1977, Countdown had become the central stage for both Australian and global music.
Host: Jon English.
The 1978 season showcased the rise of disco and new wave. Marcia Hines continued her success, while international guests like Kate Bush and Blondie brought fresh sounds to Australian audiences. The Countdown Dancers added visual flair, and Molly Meldrum’s commentary kept fans connected to the latest trends. The program’s cultural impact was clear: appearances often translated directly into chart success.
By 1979, Countdown was the dominant force in Australian music television. Acts like Split Enz and Little River Band gained momentum, while international guests such as The Police and Dire Straits expanded the show’s reach. The blend of local and global talent reinforced Countdown as the nation’s musical hub, shaping tastes and boosting careers.
In 1980, Countdown embraced the energy of new wave and pop-rock. Split Enz and Men at Work began their rise, while international stars like Madness and Queen electrified audiences. Molly Meldrum’s Humdrum segment remained central, guiding fans through the evolving music landscape. The show’s influence on record sales and radio playlists was unmatched.
THE SHOW IS HOSTED IN TURN BY JIMMY MANZIE FROM THE BREAKERS,CHRIS VENN FROM DELANEY VENN,CHRISSY AND LINDSAY HAMMOND FROM CHEETAH AND MICHAEL HUTCHINS FROM INXS AND MOLLY INETRVIEWS JOHN FARRER LIVE STUDIO ITEMS: BREAKERS 'WHEN I'M ON TV' DELANEY VENN 'NO EXPECTATIONS' CHEETAH 'SPEND THE NIGHT' INXS 'JUST KEEP WALKIN' CHARTBUSTERS: OL'55 'TWO FACES HAVE I' CLIFF RICHARD 'DREAMIN' SKATT BROS 'LIFE AT THE OUTPOST' GEORGE BENSON 'GIVE ME THE NIGHT' LOCAL ARTISTS VIDEO ITEMS: MARK GILLESPIE & BAND 'SMALL MERCIES' OVERSEAS ARTISTS VIDEO ITEMS: STEVIE WONDER 'MASTER BLASTER' WILLIE NELSON 'ON THE ROAD AGAIN' DEXY'S MIDNIGHT RUNNERS 'GENO' WHITESNAKE 'FOOL FOR YOUR LOVIN' ABBA 'THE WINNER TAKES IT ALL' TOP TEN ITEMS: ROCKY NURNETTE 'FALLIN IN LOVE' MARTHA & THE MUFFINS "ECHO BEACH' ROMANTICS 'WHAT I LIKE ABOUT YOU' DAVID BOWIE 'ASHES TO ASHES' ONJ/ELO 'XANADU' KATE BUSH 'BABOOSHKA' DIANA ROSS 'UPSIDE DOWN' IRENE CARA 'FAME' LEO SAYER 'MORE THAN I CAN SAY'
The 1981 season highlighted the growing dominance of Australian acts, with Men at Work breaking through and INXS emerging. International guests like Kim Wilde and Phil Collins added global appeal. The program’s format—performances, interviews, and guest hosts—kept audiences engaged, while Molly Meldrum’s commentary reinforced Countdown’s role as a cultural touchstone.
By 1982, Countdown was at the heart of Australia’s pop explosion. INXS and Moving Pictures gained traction, while international stars like Duran Duran and Culture Club brought new wave flair. The show’s influence extended beyond television, shaping fashion and youth culture. Molly Meldrum’s presence ensured Countdown remained authoritative and entertaining.
In 1983, Countdown reflected the global rise of synth-pop and MTV-style presentation. Australian acts like Pseudo Echo and Real Life thrived, while international guests such as David Bowie and Spandau Ballet captivated audiences. The program’s mix of performance and commentary kept it fresh, reinforcing its role as the nation’s musical compass.
The 1984 season showcased the peak of Australian pop, with INXS and Pseudo Echo dominating. International stars like Madonna and Wham! brought global glamour. Molly Meldrum’s Humdrum remained central, while the show’s influence on youth culture was undeniable. Countdown had become both a stage and a trendsetter.
By 1985, Countdown was a fixture of Australian life. Kylie Minogue made early appearances, while INXS and Jimmy Barnes cemented their status. International guests like Tears for Fears and Eurythmics added global prestige. The program’s ability to launch careers and shape national taste was unmatched.
In 1986, Countdown continued to spotlight rising Australian talent, with Crowded House and Kylie Minogue gaining momentum. International acts like a-ha and Pet Shop Boys brought fresh sounds. Molly Meldrum remained the face of the show, guiding audiences through a rapidly changing pop landscape.
The final season in 1987 marked the end of an era. Crowded House and Kylie Minogue were among the standout acts, while international guests maintained global appeal. As the program concluded in July, its legacy was clear: Countdown had defined Australian music television for over a decade, shaping generations of fans and artists.
Hosted by Crowded House.
Hosts: Kylie Minogue, Mike Hammond & The Village People. Performances by The Village People, Paul Kelly & The Coloured Girls, Geisha. Exclusive live footage of Elton John performing 'Your Song'.
Final episode of Countdown.
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