‘It gets harder and harder’: Why this TV icon is stepping away after decades
- Replies 0
For decades, Australians have tuned in to trusted voices for expert analysis during pivotal political moments.
But change is on the horizon for one of the most recognisable figures in election coverage.
A major shift is coming to the ABC’s election night broadcasts, marking the end of an era for a long-standing expert.
After three decades as the ABC’s chief election analyst, Antony Green stepped down from his on-screen role, the broadcaster announced on Wednesday.
Green, who had covered more than 100 state and federal elections, planned to make his final live appearance during the next federal election.
Despite leaving the broadcast role, he intended to continue working behind the scenes on the network’s election coverage.
He acknowledged the challenges of keeping up with the demands of live analysis, stating: ‘By the time of the next election, I'll be 68 and I know I'm not as sharp and quick as I was five years ago.’
‘It gets harder and harder. It's like a footballer, sometimes they play on a season too long, and I'm making sure I don't do that.’
ABC’s director of news, Justin Stevens, described Green as an ‘Australian institution’ and a ‘much-loved figure with the public’.
‘For more than three decades he has performed one of the ABC's most important roles with precision, impartiality, dedication and unprecedented expertise.’
‘He has the ABC's immense gratitude and respect.’
Green’s contributions to journalism and public service had been recognised in 2016 when he was awarded an Order of Australia.
His departure followed several high-profile changes at the ABC.
ABC News Breakfast host Michael Rowland retired in December.
ABC Radio also faced widespread staff cuts.
Watch the announcement of Antony Green below.
With Antony Green stepping away from live election coverage, who do you think should take on the role next? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
But change is on the horizon for one of the most recognisable figures in election coverage.
A major shift is coming to the ABC’s election night broadcasts, marking the end of an era for a long-standing expert.
After three decades as the ABC’s chief election analyst, Antony Green stepped down from his on-screen role, the broadcaster announced on Wednesday.
Green, who had covered more than 100 state and federal elections, planned to make his final live appearance during the next federal election.
Despite leaving the broadcast role, he intended to continue working behind the scenes on the network’s election coverage.
He acknowledged the challenges of keeping up with the demands of live analysis, stating: ‘By the time of the next election, I'll be 68 and I know I'm not as sharp and quick as I was five years ago.’
‘It gets harder and harder. It's like a footballer, sometimes they play on a season too long, and I'm making sure I don't do that.’
ABC’s director of news, Justin Stevens, described Green as an ‘Australian institution’ and a ‘much-loved figure with the public’.
‘For more than three decades he has performed one of the ABC's most important roles with precision, impartiality, dedication and unprecedented expertise.’
‘He has the ABC's immense gratitude and respect.’
Green’s contributions to journalism and public service had been recognised in 2016 when he was awarded an Order of Australia.
His departure followed several high-profile changes at the ABC.
ABC News Breakfast host Michael Rowland retired in December.
ABC Radio also faced widespread staff cuts.
Watch the announcement of Antony Green below.
With Antony Green stepping away from live election coverage, who do you think should take on the role next? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
