Lloyd Robertson, one of the most esteemed figures in Canadian journalism, has died at the age of 92, leaving behind a legacy of trust and integrity that spanned over six decades. His family confirmed the news, which has sent ripples of sadness through the broadcasting community and beyond. Robertson, who served as the chief anchor for CTV News from 1984 until his retirement in 2011, was a familiar face in homes across Canada, known for his distinctive sign-off, “That’s the kind of day it’s been.”
A Distinguished Career in Journalism
Robertson joined CTV in 1976 after a remarkable tenure at the CBC, where he felt constrained by union regulations that limited anchors to merely reading the news. Frustrated by the lack of creative freedom, he made the pivotal decision to move to CTV, where he was promised the opportunity to write, report, and engage more fully with the news. “The CTV network said: total freedom, whatever you want to do,” he recalled in a 1976 interview, emphasising the irresistible nature of his new role.
Throughout his career, Robertson covered numerous pivotal events, including the Quebec referendum and the tragic attacks of September 11, 2001. His reporting during these critical moments demonstrated not only his professionalism but also his deep empathy, which resonated with viewers. During the memorial service for the victims of 9/11, he was visibly moved, expressing the overwhelming nature of the tragedy as he reported on the thousands gathered to pay their respects.
A Trusted Voice for Canadians
For eleven consecutive years, Robertson was voted the most trusted TV journalist by readers of TV Guide Canada, a testament to the bond he forged with his audience. He understood the importance of objectivity and fairness in journalism, once stating, “Conferred upon you is this mantle of objectivity and fairness, and you have to take that seriously.” His commitment to these principles shaped the standards of broadcast journalism in Canada.
Bell Media, the parent company of CTV News, expressed profound sorrow at his passing. Richard Gray, Bell Media’s vice-president of news, remarked on Robertson’s lasting impact, saying, “Lloyd left an indelible mark on both CTV News and Canadian journalism.” He was not just a colleague but a mentor and friend to many, embodying the values of journalism that he championed throughout his career.
Personal Life and Legacy
Born in Stratford, Ontario, Robertson began his broadcasting journey in 1952 at a local radio station. After a brief stint at a Guelph radio station, he joined the CBC in 1954, where he honed his craft before moving to CTV. He married his high school sweetheart, Nancy, in 1956, and the couple raised four daughters, including twins.
Robertson was not only a respected journalist but also a celebrated member of the Canadian community. He was inducted into the Order of Canada and the Canadian Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame in 1998, and in 2007, he became the first journalist to receive a star on Canada’s Walk of Fame. His achievements in journalism were recognised with lifetime achievement awards from both the Radio Television Digital News Association in 2015 and the Canadian Journalism Foundation in 2016.
Lisa LaFlamme, who succeeded him as anchor of CTV National News, paid tribute to Robertson on social media, referring to him as a broadcast legend. “It was overwhelming and yet calming – because he was there,” she noted, reflecting on the moment he handed her the reins of the newscast.
Why it Matters
Lloyd Robertson’s death marks the end of an era in Canadian journalism. His unwavering commitment to accuracy and integrity set a standard for future generations of journalists. As a trusted voice during some of the most significant events in Canada’s history, his influence is felt not only in the realm of broadcasting but also in the broader narrative of Canadian identity. His legacy will endure, inspiring upcoming journalists to uphold the values he championed throughout his remarkable career.
