Journalist Colin Chapman (87) and Baywatch star Michael Newman (67) pass away
- Replies 3
The broadcasting and entertainment industry mourns the loss of two mainstays.
One was an exemplary journalist who lent his talents to numerous media outlets in the country.
Meanwhile, the other was an iconic figure, as seen in the famous TV series Baywatch.
Legendary broadcaster Colin Chapman passed away at the age of 87 after a prolonged battle with poor health.
Chapman's illustrious career, which spanned several decades and continents, left an indelible mark on Australia's media landscape and influenced generations of journalists.
Born in the UK in 1937, Chapman was an alumnus of the University of Leicester.
He spent his final years at Tavira, Portugal with his wife Susan Grice—away from the limelight but never far from the world of journalism.
Chapman was a former deputy editor of The Australian and a revered media figure who had an extensive career.
He has worked with several prestigious media institutions such as BBC TV, The Sunday Times, The Financial Times, and The Observer.
He did not limit himself to print journalism, as he was equally adept as a TV presenter and a senior manager in radio and television.
Chapman's journey in journalism was as diverse as it was impressive.
He authored several books and was an editor-at-large for the Australian Outlook, where he penned insightful columns on elections around the world.
His expertise also graced the pages of The New York Times and The Washington Post.
He also played a pivotal role at ABC as a founding producer of the network's The World Today.
His career was a testament to his versatility and dedication to the craft.
'There will not be many journalists who have been both writers and executives in the print media, as well as on-camera performers and senior managers in radio and television,' Chapman shared as he reflected on his career.
As a foreign correspondent, Chapman's work took him to the frontlines of history.
He covered the terror attacks in Hong Kong during the 1960s.
He also reported on international conflicts in Africa and the Suez region.
His work on The Money Programme and BBC Radio 4's Financial World Tonight allowed him to delve into long-form documentaries.
His documentaries took him to Iran during the last days of the Shah, to Brezhnev's Russia, and various other locations such as India, Greece, South Africa, and Japan, providing a global perspective that was both rare and invaluable.
Chapman's connection to Australia was also undeniable.
After spending three periods of his life in the country, he was granted citizenship in recognition of his significant contributions.
He stayed in the country until 2004 yet remained closely connected to Australian media and affairs throughout his life.
In a six-page history he sent to the Australian Institute of International Affairs, Chapman recounted his early days at the BBC, where he rose to become the economics correspondent in 1974.
He fondly remembered the broadcaster's encouragement to interpret economics broadly, which led to him being described as 'the success story of BBC News' by the editor.
On the other side of the world, celebrity lifeguard Michael Newman—famous for his role in the iconic television series Baywatch, passed away.
The 68-year-old star passed after a valiant 18-year battle with Parkinson's disease.
The late star is survived by his wife, Sarah, their children, Chris and Emily, and their granddaughter, Charlie.
Newman's close friend, Matt Felker, confirmed his passing.
Newman's authenticity brought unique credibility to the famous beach series, as he was the only lifeguard among cast members.
This experience allowed him to portray his character with ease and made him a fan favourite.
Newman appeared in 150 episodes of the said series.
Beyond the sandy beaches of the show, Newman was also a full-time firefighter.
His commitment to serving others extended off-screen as he embodied the heroism he portrayed as his character, Michael 'Newmie' Newman.
After Baywatch ended in 2001, he continued to serve his community as a firefighter until his retirement.
Newman was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 2006 at the age of 50.
Newman faced his condition with the same courage and determination he showed in his career.
His journey with Parkinson's was chronicled in the documentary series After Baywatch: Moment in the Sun.
Newman also spoke about the impact it had on his life.
'This terminal disease has allowed me a lot of thinking time, which I maybe didn't want, but it's brought me wisdom,' Newman shared in an interview.
'My body has changed so slowly that I hardly notice it, yet I am constantly reminded that Parkinson's has now become the centre of my life.'
'I am cherishing the days that I get to be on this earth with family and friends,' he concluded.
His retirement from Hollywood was a decision born from the industry's demands and the toll it takes on actors over the years.
While he found 'great pleasure' in acting, he also understood the reality of the business and stepped away to focus on his family and health instead.
Watch one of Michael Newman's appearances on the series here:
Source: Baywatch/YouTube
In his final years, Newman devoted his efforts to the Michael J Fox Foundation, which aimed to help find a cure for Parkinson's disease.
His commitment to this cause was a reflection of his desire to make a difference despite facing his struggles.
His family, friends, and fans will remember him not only for his role, but also for his bravery, his service to others, and his contributions to the fight against Parkinson's disease.
As we bid farewell to these figures, we remember the legacy they left in their respective industries.
May they rest in peace.
One was an exemplary journalist who lent his talents to numerous media outlets in the country.
Meanwhile, the other was an iconic figure, as seen in the famous TV series Baywatch.
Legendary broadcaster Colin Chapman passed away at the age of 87 after a prolonged battle with poor health.
Chapman's illustrious career, which spanned several decades and continents, left an indelible mark on Australia's media landscape and influenced generations of journalists.
Born in the UK in 1937, Chapman was an alumnus of the University of Leicester.
Colin Chapman was a respected journalist and broadcaster who's had published works in different media platforms. Image Credit: LinkedIn
He spent his final years at Tavira, Portugal with his wife Susan Grice—away from the limelight but never far from the world of journalism.
Chapman was a former deputy editor of The Australian and a revered media figure who had an extensive career.
He has worked with several prestigious media institutions such as BBC TV, The Sunday Times, The Financial Times, and The Observer.
He did not limit himself to print journalism, as he was equally adept as a TV presenter and a senior manager in radio and television.
Chapman's journey in journalism was as diverse as it was impressive.
He authored several books and was an editor-at-large for the Australian Outlook, where he penned insightful columns on elections around the world.
His expertise also graced the pages of The New York Times and The Washington Post.
He also played a pivotal role at ABC as a founding producer of the network's The World Today.
His career was a testament to his versatility and dedication to the craft.
'There will not be many journalists who have been both writers and executives in the print media, as well as on-camera performers and senior managers in radio and television,' Chapman shared as he reflected on his career.
As a foreign correspondent, Chapman's work took him to the frontlines of history.
He covered the terror attacks in Hong Kong during the 1960s.
He also reported on international conflicts in Africa and the Suez region.
His work on The Money Programme and BBC Radio 4's Financial World Tonight allowed him to delve into long-form documentaries.
His documentaries took him to Iran during the last days of the Shah, to Brezhnev's Russia, and various other locations such as India, Greece, South Africa, and Japan, providing a global perspective that was both rare and invaluable.
Chapman's connection to Australia was also undeniable.
After spending three periods of his life in the country, he was granted citizenship in recognition of his significant contributions.
He stayed in the country until 2004 yet remained closely connected to Australian media and affairs throughout his life.
In a six-page history he sent to the Australian Institute of International Affairs, Chapman recounted his early days at the BBC, where he rose to become the economics correspondent in 1974.
He fondly remembered the broadcaster's encouragement to interpret economics broadly, which led to him being described as 'the success story of BBC News' by the editor.
On the other side of the world, celebrity lifeguard Michael Newman—famous for his role in the iconic television series Baywatch, passed away.
The 68-year-old star passed after a valiant 18-year battle with Parkinson's disease.
The late star is survived by his wife, Sarah, their children, Chris and Emily, and their granddaughter, Charlie.
Newman's close friend, Matt Felker, confirmed his passing.
Michael Newman portrayed a character endearingly called 'Newmie' in the series. Image Credit: IMDb
Newman's authenticity brought unique credibility to the famous beach series, as he was the only lifeguard among cast members.
This experience allowed him to portray his character with ease and made him a fan favourite.
Newman appeared in 150 episodes of the said series.
Beyond the sandy beaches of the show, Newman was also a full-time firefighter.
His commitment to serving others extended off-screen as he embodied the heroism he portrayed as his character, Michael 'Newmie' Newman.
After Baywatch ended in 2001, he continued to serve his community as a firefighter until his retirement.
Newman was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 2006 at the age of 50.
Newman faced his condition with the same courage and determination he showed in his career.
His journey with Parkinson's was chronicled in the documentary series After Baywatch: Moment in the Sun.
Newman also spoke about the impact it had on his life.
'This terminal disease has allowed me a lot of thinking time, which I maybe didn't want, but it's brought me wisdom,' Newman shared in an interview.
'My body has changed so slowly that I hardly notice it, yet I am constantly reminded that Parkinson's has now become the centre of my life.'
'I am cherishing the days that I get to be on this earth with family and friends,' he concluded.
His retirement from Hollywood was a decision born from the industry's demands and the toll it takes on actors over the years.
While he found 'great pleasure' in acting, he also understood the reality of the business and stepped away to focus on his family and health instead.
Watch one of Michael Newman's appearances on the series here:
Source: Baywatch/YouTube
In his final years, Newman devoted his efforts to the Michael J Fox Foundation, which aimed to help find a cure for Parkinson's disease.
His commitment to this cause was a reflection of his desire to make a difference despite facing his struggles.
His family, friends, and fans will remember him not only for his role, but also for his bravery, his service to others, and his contributions to the fight against Parkinson's disease.
May they rest in peace.
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