Final curtain, last broadcast: A tribute to a brave journalist (64) and a beloved actress (72)
- Replies 1
This month, the world has seen the passing of two beloved public figures—Peter Ryan, Walkley Award-winning journalist and respected ABC voice, and Joanna Bacon, a British actress known for her gentle presence on screen and her devotion to the stage.
Though their paths were different, they shared a deep commitment to storytelling, truth, and the lives of those around them.
He had recently retired in June to spend his final months with his wife Mary Cotter, daughter Charlotte, and his wider circle of loved ones.
ABC News Director Justin Stevens described Peter as someone who 'left a significant legacy'. He added: 'Through his mentorship, friendship, and professionalism, he directly touched the lives of many at the ABC. Through his journalism, he had a profound impact on the lives of Australians and our society. It was a privilege to know him and work alongside him.'
Peter began as a copyboy at the Daily Mirror before making his mark at the ABC, where he served in roles including foreign correspondent, Washington bureau chief, and the founding editor of Lateline Business, which later became The Business. His 45-year career culminated in his tenure as senior business correspondent and business editor, where his calm authority earned public trust.
He was best known for his 2017 exposé of the Commonwealth Bank scandal, which helped spark the banking royal commission. For this, he was named the National Press Club's finance journalist of the year in 2018 and awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia in 2022.
Former News Breakfast presenter Michael Rowland said Peter 'represented the very best of the ABC'.
'He was scrupulously fair and was committed to accuracy and facts. There was never any agenda in his reporting. That is why he was held in such high regard by his colleagues and the ABC audience. I learnt so much from him.'
Treasurer Jim Chalmers added simply: 'Peter Ryan is an absolute legend.'
When Peter stepped away from the ABC, he left colleagues a note that summed up his ethos:
'Avoid cynicism — be passionate. A good team can often be a very small team — I've worked in some of the best. Be proactive — come to the table with a great story... Work closely with top people — shut up and absorb like a sponge. Maintain a fastidious contact book... Show up to work early and prove that you're ready to take on the big story of the day... Finally: Be kind and caring to people who need it.'
Source: ABC News (Australia) / Youtube.
Her death was announced by the Harlow Theatre Company (HTC), where she had been a founding member since 1978. The company shared: 'It is with much sadness that we inform our HTC members past and present of the passing of Jo Bacon... following a short and brave battle against cancer.'
Joanna Bacon was a beloved British actress whose career spanned theatre, television, and film, with a memorable role in Love Actually. Image source: Real News / Youtube.
In Love Actually, Joanna appeared as the kindly and excitable mother of Natalie (Martine McCutcheon), delivering one of the film's memorable comedic lines: 'It's the school Christmas concert, you see, David. It's the first time all the local schools have joined together, even St Basil's.'
And later: 'Eight is a lot of legs, David,' she added, referring to her son's octopus costume.
Her on-screen career spanned over three decades, including appearances in Perfect Scoundrels, EastEnders, Little Britain, The Bill, and most recently, Moonflower Murders and Breeders. She also played a part in A Quiet Passion alongside Cynthia Nixon.
But the stage remained her first love. HTC recalled her in iconic roles like Portia in The Merchant of Venice, Beverly in Abigail's Party, and Maddie in Dirty Linen. Even after her success, she continued to support the company — 'settling herself in the front row with a notebook and a critical eye', as HTC fondly remembered. 'She never forgot to praise our work.'
Joanna’s journey from publishing house employee to seasoned actress, including appearances at London's National Theatre, showed a remarkable dedication to her craft. The theatre company summed it best: 'She popped up on our televisions many times in various drama series... Jo will be sadly missed and fondly remembered.'
Joanna Bacon's iconic scene from Love Actually. Source: Screen Bites / Youtube.
Both leave behind more than memories. They leave lessons in integrity, warmth, and a quiet courage that inspired everyone lucky enough to work with or watch them.
They will be dearly missed.
Related story: Footy legend (77)’s death reignites discussion over hidden career story
Did Peter Ryan’s reporting or Joanna Bacon’s performances ever leave a lasting impression on you? What story, scene, or quote from their work do you remember most fondly? How do you think we can honour the legacy of storytellers like Peter and Joanna in our everyday lives? Share your thoughts and tributes in the comments below.
Though their paths were different, they shared a deep commitment to storytelling, truth, and the lives of those around them.
Peter Ryan OAM (1960–2025): A Voice of Integrity in Australian Journalism
Peter Ryan, long-serving ABC journalist and 2017 Walkley Award-winner, died aged 64 in Sydney after a courageous battle with metastatic thyroid cancer.He had recently retired in June to spend his final months with his wife Mary Cotter, daughter Charlotte, and his wider circle of loved ones.
ABC News Director Justin Stevens described Peter as someone who 'left a significant legacy'. He added: 'Through his mentorship, friendship, and professionalism, he directly touched the lives of many at the ABC. Through his journalism, he had a profound impact on the lives of Australians and our society. It was a privilege to know him and work alongside him.'
Peter Ryan was a Walkley Award-winning ABC journalist known for his integrity, mentorship, and groundbreaking reporting on Australia’s financial sector. Image source: ABC News (Australia) / Youtube.
Peter began as a copyboy at the Daily Mirror before making his mark at the ABC, where he served in roles including foreign correspondent, Washington bureau chief, and the founding editor of Lateline Business, which later became The Business. His 45-year career culminated in his tenure as senior business correspondent and business editor, where his calm authority earned public trust.
He was best known for his 2017 exposé of the Commonwealth Bank scandal, which helped spark the banking royal commission. For this, he was named the National Press Club's finance journalist of the year in 2018 and awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia in 2022.
Former News Breakfast presenter Michael Rowland said Peter 'represented the very best of the ABC'.
'He was scrupulously fair and was committed to accuracy and facts. There was never any agenda in his reporting. That is why he was held in such high regard by his colleagues and the ABC audience. I learnt so much from him.'
Treasurer Jim Chalmers added simply: 'Peter Ryan is an absolute legend.'
When Peter stepped away from the ABC, he left colleagues a note that summed up his ethos:
'Avoid cynicism — be passionate. A good team can often be a very small team — I've worked in some of the best. Be proactive — come to the table with a great story... Work closely with top people — shut up and absorb like a sponge. Maintain a fastidious contact book... Show up to work early and prove that you're ready to take on the big story of the day... Finally: Be kind and caring to people who need it.'
Source: ABC News (Australia) / Youtube.
Joanna Bacon (1952–2024): A Quiet Force on Stage and Screen
Joanna Bacon, best remembered for her role in Love Actually and her extensive career in British theatre and television, passed away on June 14 after a brief and brave fight with cancer. She was 72.Her death was announced by the Harlow Theatre Company (HTC), where she had been a founding member since 1978. The company shared: 'It is with much sadness that we inform our HTC members past and present of the passing of Jo Bacon... following a short and brave battle against cancer.'
Joanna Bacon was a beloved British actress whose career spanned theatre, television, and film, with a memorable role in Love Actually. Image source: Real News / Youtube.
In Love Actually, Joanna appeared as the kindly and excitable mother of Natalie (Martine McCutcheon), delivering one of the film's memorable comedic lines: 'It's the school Christmas concert, you see, David. It's the first time all the local schools have joined together, even St Basil's.'
And later: 'Eight is a lot of legs, David,' she added, referring to her son's octopus costume.
Her on-screen career spanned over three decades, including appearances in Perfect Scoundrels, EastEnders, Little Britain, The Bill, and most recently, Moonflower Murders and Breeders. She also played a part in A Quiet Passion alongside Cynthia Nixon.
But the stage remained her first love. HTC recalled her in iconic roles like Portia in The Merchant of Venice, Beverly in Abigail's Party, and Maddie in Dirty Linen. Even after her success, she continued to support the company — 'settling herself in the front row with a notebook and a critical eye', as HTC fondly remembered. 'She never forgot to praise our work.'
Joanna’s journey from publishing house employee to seasoned actress, including appearances at London's National Theatre, showed a remarkable dedication to her craft. The theatre company summed it best: 'She popped up on our televisions many times in various drama series... Jo will be sadly missed and fondly remembered.'
Joanna Bacon's iconic scene from Love Actually. Source: Screen Bites / Youtube.
Two Lights, Now at Rest
Peter and Joanna worked in different spheres but were united in spirit—each embodying grace, resilience, and generosity. They gave their audiences stories to believe in, whether by exposing truth or portraying love, humour, and heartbreak.Both leave behind more than memories. They leave lessons in integrity, warmth, and a quiet courage that inspired everyone lucky enough to work with or watch them.
They will be dearly missed.
Related story: Footy legend (77)’s death reignites discussion over hidden career story
Did Peter Ryan’s reporting or Joanna Bacon’s performances ever leave a lasting impression on you? What story, scene, or quote from their work do you remember most fondly? How do you think we can honour the legacy of storytellers like Peter and Joanna in our everyday lives? Share your thoughts and tributes in the comments below.
Last edited:
.png){kind=icon}
Vale Joanna 
