Vale Paul Murphy: Tributes as veteran ABC broadcaster dies aged 77

Tributes have flooded in on social media for veteran Australian broadcaster Paul Murphy after the news broke that he had passed away.

According to the ABC he passed away at the age of 77 following a short illness. The sad news was confirmed by a number of his friends and colleagues online.

Murphy will be best remembered as the host of ABC Radio’s afternoon current affairs program PM, which he presented from 1983 to 1993. He was also the original host of SBS show Dateline, which he presented for a decade.

ABC News Director Gaven Morris wrote: “Very sad news today with the passing of Paul Murphy, legendary journalist and long-term presenter of ABC Radio’s PM program. His unforgettable voice, his passion for a good yarn and his dedication to broadcasting will be greatly missed by so many. Thank you Paul. Vale.”

Media commentator Mike Carlton said: “Deeply saddened to report the death of Paul Murphy. ABC journalist, foreign correspondent, TDT reporter, presenter of PM. And an old mate. Of cancer, this afternoon. His many friends will miss his wit and wisdom, his warmth and humanity.”

I can still hear Paul’s distinctive voice introducing each night’s edition of PM. He was a terrific journalist, an incisive interviewer and a great mentor. RIP. https://t.co/ZQ4mjHGmFP

— Michael Rowland (@mjrowland68) October 20, 2020

ABC News Breakfast presenter Michael Rowland wrote on Twitter: “I can still hear Paul’s distinctive voice introducing each night’s edition of PM. He was a terrific journalist, an incisive interviewer and a great mentor. RIP.”

And Walkleys Director Marcus Strom said: “Sad to hear of the death of ABC great, Paul Murphy. Rest In Peace. One of the great radio voices, one of the great current affairs journalists.”

https://twitter.com/strom_m/status/1318419480591003649

Murphy was made a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in 1994 for services to public broadcasting and journalism, and in 2000 he was awarded the Walkley Award for Outstanding Contribution to Journalism.