Allison Langdon broke down in tears while recalling the death of her friend Gavin Larkin, the founder of Australia’s R U OK? Day, and the devastating impact his loss had on his family.
Speaking alongside Larkin’s widow, Maryanne, on The Australian Women’s Weekly’s Love Stories podcast, the television presenter said the grief surrounding his death had remained with her despite the passing of time.
“It doesn’t matter how many years have passed. I do this every time,” Langdon said, wiping away tears. “I don’t think that part ever gets easier.”
Larkin died from lymphoma in September 2011, aged 42, shortly after seeing the third R U OK? Day take place. He had founded the suicide-prevention campaign in 2009 after his father, Barry, died by suicide.
Langdon, who was involved in helping launch the campaign through the Nine Network’s Today programme, said she had been deeply affected by what Maryanne and her children endured.
“When I think about what you guys went through at that time – it stays with you,” she said. “It changes who you are. It does change everything forever.”
She also praised Maryanne for continuing to raise her children and support others while coping with the loss of her husband. “How you got out of bed each day and raised your beautiful kids, still managed to take the time to think about everyone else,” Langdon said.
Langdon and Maryanne have remained close friends since the early days of R U OK? Day, which encourages people to check in with those who may be struggling with their mental health.
The campaign’s annual day of action is being held on Thursday, September 10, 2026. R U OK? says its work is based on the belief that a conversation can help people feel connected and supported.
