Broadcasting legend George Negus passes away at 82

Australia lost one of its most seasoned journalists.

Broadcaster George Negus passed away at the age of 82 after a battle with Alzheimer's disease.

His passing marked the end of an era for Australian journalism, as he left behind a legacy that would inspire future generations.


Negus, known for his fearless reporting and charismatic presence, was widely known through programs like 60 Minutes and Foreign Correspondent.

His career spanned several decades, as he became renowned for his robust interviews and bringing international stories to Australian audiences with his unique flair and insight.

Earlier this year, Negus's family announced his 'gracious decline' brought on by the brain condition.

The news of his passing prompted an outpour of tributes from colleagues, viewers, and prominent media figures nationwide.


compressed-george negus.jpeg
George Negus battled Alzheimer's disease for five years before passing away. Image Credit: Wikipedia


Fellow journalist Ray Martin shared a poignant tribute to Negus, describing him as 'a very good mate'.

'Logie created television for George Negus. He was probably the strongest TV character I can remember on Australian television,' Martin recounted.

'He was outrageous, charismatic, loud, heavily opinionated, and funny. He was just a great bloke.'

'George was created for television. Despite the fact that he was an outstanding newspaper journalist, he was meant for television,' Martin added.


Ian Leslie, another founding reporter of 60 Minutes, spoke about the profound impact Negus had on the show's success.

'Negus was the frontrunner—never frightened to express his opinion, and he had an opinion on everything,' Leslie shared on-air.

'He left an enormous body of work. Sadly, this had to happen. It's not unexpected; we've been steeling ourselves for this news for the past two years.'

'It leaves me feeling very empty. It's a very strange feeling. The three of us thought we'd be around forever,' Leslie lamented on-air.

Fellow 60 Minutes reporter Liz Hayes reflected on Negus's insatiable appetite for information and his down-to-earth nature.

'This is a bloke who loved the cooking segment on the Today show; a bloke who enjoyed sport and was a family man.'

Journalist and author Peter FitzSimons also paid his respects, as he called Negus a 'lovely bloke' and a 'strong and fearless journalist'.


Prime Minister Anthony Albanese acknowledged Negus as a 'giant of Australian journalism'.

'George sought and served the truth with steely determination and a twinkle in his eye, and along the way, he made even the smallest TV screen feel that much bigger,' Prime Minister Albanese shared.

'He was a wonderful human being, and his loss will be deeply felt by many Australians.'

Negus's family released a statement that showed their love for him and celebrated his role as an incredible father, grandfather, and partner.

They shared their grief over the loss of 'Negsy', a man who created a beautiful life with them and who will be dearly missed.
Key Takeaways

  • Australian broadcaster George Negus passed away at the age of 82 after a period of decline due to Alzheimer's disease.
  • Colleagues and friends have paid tribute to Negus as they remembered him as a 'great bloke', a 'fearless' journalist, and a pivotal figure in 60 Minutes.
  • Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described Negus as a 'giant of Australian journalism' whose work gave Australians insights into significant issues and global affairs.
  • Negus' family released a statement reflecting on his role as an incredible family man during his life.
George Negus' fearless pursuit of the truth, commitment to storytelling, and larger-than-life personality have cemented his status as a legend in the journalism industry.

May he rest in peace.
 
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Yes to all comments.
George certainly was "True Grit" with all of his reporting & journalism. He will be certainly missed by his very obvious close family indeed.
This is also his TV family.
 
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