Lloyd Robertson, a towering figure in Canadian journalism and a familiar face on television screens for decades, has died at the age of 92. His family confirmed that he passed away on Tuesday evening, leaving behind a legacy marked by integrity, dedication, and an unwavering connection with viewers across the nation.
A Career Spanning Generations
Robertson began his illustrious broadcasting career in 1952 at a local radio station in Stratford, Ontario. He soon transitioned to television, joining the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) in 1954. After two decades with the public broadcaster, he made the pivotal decision to join CTV in 1976, where he would become one of the most trusted voices in Canadian news.
From 1984 until his retirement in 2011, Robertson served as chief anchor and senior editor of CTV National News, where he delivered the evening news to millions. His signature sign-off, “That’s the kind of day it’s been,” became synonymous with his broadcasts and resonated deeply with audiences.
For eleven consecutive years, Robertson was voted the most trusted TV journalist by readers of TV Guide Canada. In a 2001 interview, he expressed the weight of this honour, stating, “Conferred upon you is this mantle of objectivity and fairness, and you have to take that seriously.”
A Commitment to Authentic Journalism
Robertson was not merely a presenter; he was an active participant in journalism. He often expressed frustration at the misconception that anchors were merely reading from a teleprompter. After leaving the CBC, he sought an environment where he could have greater creative freedom and engagement with the news. “I deal in the news every day. I ask questions. I do reports. I analyse. I edit. If that isn’t being a journalist, what is?” he once challenged.
Bell Media, CTV’s parent company, conveyed their sorrow in a statement, praising Robertson as a cherished figure in broadcasting. “Lloyd left an indelible mark on both CTV News and Canadian journalism,” noted Richard Gray, Bell Media’s vice-president of news. “Throughout his illustrious career, he forged a genuine bond with viewers, becoming a reassuring voice while reporting on some of the biggest events happening across Canada and around the world.”
Reporting on Historic Events
Robertson’s career was defined by his coverage of significant national and global events, including the Quebec referendum, the tragic events of September 11, 2001, and numerous federal elections. He recalled the emotional toll of reporting on the 9/11 attacks, noting the profound impact it had on him as he witnessed the collective grief of Canadians during memorial services. “When I saw those people crying on Parliament Hill, and the monumental nature of this tragedy came home to me, I began to cry,” he shared.
His commitment to journalism earned him numerous accolades, including induction into the Order of Canada and the Canadian Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame in 1998. He was also the first journalist to be honoured on Canada’s Walk of Fame in 2007. Robertson continued to contribute to CTV as a special correspondent after his retirement, showcasing his enduring passion for the profession.
A Family Man
Beyond his remarkable career, Robertson was a dedicated family man. He married his high school sweetheart, Nancy, in 1956, and together they raised four daughters, including twins. His family life was a source of pride for him, often reflecting his values of love, commitment, and integrity.
Why it Matters
Lloyd Robertson’s passing marks the end of an era in Canadian journalism. His commitment to truth, fairness, and integrity not only set a benchmark for future journalists but also inspired countless Canadians who turned to him for reliable news. As we reflect on his contributions, it is clear that his legacy will continue to influence the fabric of Canadian media and the role of journalism in society. His voice and presence on our screens will be profoundly missed, but the standards he established will endure, reminding us always of the importance of trusted journalism.
