Vale | George Negus – George Negus, who died today aged 82, is being remembered as a powerhouse of Australian broadcast journalism by his many friends and former colleagues at Nine.
Negus joined Channel 9 in the late 1970s, legendary producer Gerald Stone recognised his distinctive style and hired George to be one of the founding reporters for the then brand-new current affairs program, 60 Minutes.
Along with Ray Martin and Ian Leslie, George instantly became a household name in Australia. He was the reporter with the gruff voice, the big moustache and the bucketload of opinions.
George’s trademark way of telling stories ensured he was never accused of being dull. He famously got under the skin of British PM Margaret Thatcher; he flirted with actor Meryl Streep; and he showed his great compassion in an extraordinary interview with Mother Teresa.
In eight years on the road at 60 Minutes, George travelled to numerous warzones and reported from every corner of the world.
Nine’s Director of Television Michael Healy remembered George as one of this country’s biggest stars.
“Today, Australia lost one of its greatest storytellers. When you watched a George Negus interview it was thoughtful, intelligent, composed. He was always in control.”
Fiona Dear, Director of News and Current Affairs said,
“Like many Australians, I grew up watching George Negus every Sunday night on 60 Minutes. He opened Australia’s eyes to the world, he took us to places we didn’t know existed, and introduced us to the people who shaped society.”
For Kirsty Thomson, 60 Minutes Executive Producer, George’s contribution to the program will always be applauded and treasured.
“Everyone at 60 Minutes sends love to George’s family.”
“We are so proud to work at a program that’s always been inspired by George’s trailblazing journalism and globetrotting genius.”
“His legacy lives on at 60 Minutes through his wonderful son Serge, a producer on the program, who continues to do what George loved most about his job: being able to tell great stories.”
Media Release – Nine
Link to 9Now HERE
TV Central Nine content HERE
Vale | George Negus
