Sad news: Sports journalist Gibbo has died aged 75

Sad news has come in this afternoon – veteran sports journalist Mike Gibson has died aged 75.

You may remember Gibbo from Wide World of Sports – he became a household name in the 80s with his recognisable style of interviewing and commentary.

SMH reports Gibson hosted The Back Page for 16 years from 1997, missing just one episode.

Kerri-Anne Kennerley was being interviewed when the news broke, and expressed her shock at the sad announcement.

“He was a very quiet and shy guy, who had this wonderful ability to reach out to people, and have a bit of fun, and know how to talk in a common language,” she said on 2GB radio this afternoon, reports 9News.

“I was very nervous about losing my job, but I was grateful to know that he insisted that I stay. And I’ve got to say, we had such a wonderful relationship.

“I’ve got to say I’m very very sad for Gibbo and his whole family”.

Tributes are flowing on social media:

Mike Gibson – Sports writer par excellence with a great eye for the game. RIP. Condolences to family and friends.

— Peter Wilkins (@WilkoSport) September 23, 2015

Just want to add to all the nice things people have been saying about Mike Gibson. A life well spent.

— Steve Mascord (@therealsteavis) September 23, 2015

RIP, respected sports journalist and TV presenter Mike Gibson – one of the good guys. #RIPMikeGibson

— NSWRL (@NSWRL) September 23, 2015

Thanks Mike Gibson for all those years of quality journalism, particularly with Channel 9s Wide World of Sports. RIP. pic.twitter.com/9RF782Pgfd

— Andrew Nikolic (@andrewnikolic) September 23, 2015

This is a breaking news story, and we’ll update as more information comes to light.