Canada is mourning the loss of one of its most respected and recognizable journalists, Lloyd Robertson, whose distinguished career helped shape Canadian broadcast journalism for more than six decades. Robertson, the longtime chief anchor of CTV National News, passed away on Tuesday evening at the age of 92, according to his family.
Widely regarded as one of the most trusted voices in Canadian media history, Robertson spent a lifetime bringing major world events and national stories into the homes of millions of Canadians. Throughout his remarkable career, he reported on some of the most significant moments of the modern era, including the fall of the Berlin Wall, the September 11 terrorist attacks, federal elections, royal visits, and countless defining moments in Canadian history.
Robertson’s broadcasting journey began in 1952 at a local radio station in his hometown of Stratford, Ontario. Just four years later, he made his national television debut with the CBC, where he rose to prominence before joining CTV National News in 1976. In 1984, he became the network’s chief anchor and senior news editor, a position he held until his retirement in 2011.
When he delivered his final broadcast, Robertson reflected on the privilege of witnessing history firsthand. He described his career as a “front-row seat to history” and spoke proudly of watching Canada grow in confidence and stature over the decades.
Tributes have poured in from across the country. Former Prime Minister Stephen Harper once described Robertson’s retirement as “the end of an era,” noting that he had become such a constant presence in Canadian life that he seemed almost part of the nation’s geography. Former Liberal leader Bob Rae praised his integrity, authenticity, and authority, while veteran journalist Craig Oliver credited Robertson with helping establish CTV News as a leading source of trusted journalism.
His contributions earned numerous honors, including appointment to the Order of Canada in 1998, an honorary doctorate, and a star on Canada’s Walk of Fame. He was also recognized in his hometown of Stratford, which declared September 1 “Lloyd Robertson Day.”
Robertson is survived by his wife Nancy, whom he married in 1956, their four daughters, and seven grandchildren.
For generations of Canadians, Lloyd Robertson’s familiar closing words—”And that’s the kind of day it’s been”—became synonymous with trustworthy journalism. His legacy as a broadcaster, storyteller, and chronicler of history will endure long after his final sign-off.