A spokesperson for Young Talent Time led tributes to Bobby Driessen on social media. They penned: “All of us here at Young Talent Time, are incredibly saddened to hear the news of Bobby Driessen one of our beloved team members has passed away in his sleep.
“Only 56 years old, way too young to have left us. Bobby you will be sadly missed. Vale Bobby Driessen.”
Fellow Young Talent Time star Bevan Addinsall also paid his respects, saying: “’In 1983 I joined Young Talent Time. The team member I replaced was Bobby Driessen.
“A uniquely talented funny and charismatic person. I’m so saddened to hear that Bobby has passed away in his sleep.
“He was only 56 and it has come as quite a shock. Vale Bobby Driessen. RIP.”
Johnny Young, a team member on the Network 10 show, also said: “Bobby was one of the most popular members of the Young Talent Team.
“He was a gentle, loving young man who still has many fans. Thanks for the many great shows we did together.
“Bobby, we will never forget you. All my love – Johnny Young and family”
Young Talent Time was a weekly variety show that aired in Australia from 1971 until 1988 before being revived in 2012.
Many stars of the show went on to have great success including Dannii Minogue, Tina Arena and Debra Byrne.
The show also featured performances from the likes of Kylie Minogue and Jason Donovan.
After leaving Young Talent Time in 1983, Driessen had one appearance in Neighbours in 1985 but then stepped back from the public eye.
The cast of the variety show took part in a reunion last year but bosses said they were unable to contact Bobby.
In a Facebook post last year, Young Talent Time wrote: “Bobby was one of two people we couldn’t track down for our reunion show earlier on in the year.
“If anyone has his details please let us know.”
More to follow…