1 March 2019
I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of veteran television journalist Mike Willesee and extend my sincere condolences to his family and friends.
Mike was one of the country’s most respected journalists, interviewers and presenters. He graced our television screens for more than 50 years working on top-rating shows on the ABC and the Nine and Seven networks.
Born in 1942 in Perth, Mike started his stellar career as a reporter for the ABC’s This Day Tonight. He became a household name as the host of Nine’s A Current Affair, where he used his intellect, tenacity and wit to conduct fearless interviews.
He was one of the best of his era and went on to front his own current affairs programs Willesee At Seven and Willesee. He also hosted the first Australian version of This Is Your Life.
Mike received many accolades during his long career and was honoured in 2002 when he was inducted into the TV Week Logies Hall of Fame.
His contribution to journalism and current affairs in Australia has been enormous and his legacy as a pioneer in the golden age of current affairs will be long-lasting.