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Channel Nine Star Andrew Lofthouse Shockingly Retires After 17 Years

BBG News

Veteran Channel Nine star Andrew Lofthouse is retiring after 17 years with the network.

62-year-old Lofthouse, the presenter of Nine News Queensland, disclosed on Monday that he’s taking a step back from his role due to health issues.

‘I’ve been in the business a long time,’ Loftouse said in a statement.

I’ve accomplished a great deal alongside Nine, it’s been an extraordinary honor and a delightful journey working with the cream of the crop.

He added: ‘And of course, or incredible viewers who make it all worthwhile.’

Lofhouse admitted that an undisclosed health issue had forced him to vacate his anchor chair.

He mentioned that he’s facing a minor health concern at the moment, which means it’s best for him to step back and reduce his pace a bit, following a successful career.

‘Thanks for watching!’

In a heartfelt manner, Lofthouse’s fellow actor, Melissa Downes, highly commended the departing host, referring to him as a “distinguished gentleman in the television news industry.

She noted that he has a profound enthusiasm for exceptional journalism, showing genuine concern for each news item featured in our broadcast.

Beyond being merely a coworker, Lofty has become one of my dearest friends. The sixteen years we spent together at the 9News desk are something I am deeply thankful for.

Similarly, 9News Queensland News Director Brendan Hockings was also full or praise for the star.

 ‘He is the journo who offers to carry the tripod. The colleague who makes you a cuppa, ‘ he said.

‘The news anchor who doesn’t see himself as any more than part of the team. 

‘The example he has set as a newsman is the gold standard’ he continued. 

‘He is rare, he is loved and he is forever Nine Queensland.’ 

The Courier Mail reported that staff were informed of Lofthouse’s decision on Monday morning.

The article suggested that there was much talk about the anchor’s upcoming plans, as Lofhouse hasn’t appeared on-screen since November 1.

Melissa will continue to present 9News Queensland solo until a co-host is announced.

After an 18-year stint at the ABC, Lofthouse joined the Nine News Queensland team in 2009.

In 2009, he assumed the position of weekend news anchor, replacing future co-host Melissa Downes.

That same year, Lofthouse joined Downes on the weeknight desk, taking over from Bruce paige.

The duo proved a viewer favourite, taking the bulletin to the top of the local ratings in 2013. 

Events at Channel Nine have taken an unexpected turn following the suspension of one of their prominent figures from his key position, this week, due to his acceptance of a substantial cash award from The Block tycoon, Adrian Portelli.

A wealthy list member donated $50,000 to Alex Cullen, a presenter on The Today Show, following his on-air debut of his self-coined moniker “McLaren Man” during the Friday morning broadcast.

Portelli is growing weary of the moniker “Mr Lambo,” a label that has persisted since his appearance at The Block’s 2022 house makeover show auction driving a yellow Lamborghini.

According to Channel Nine, Cullen had decided to resign on Saturday as they investigated payment matters, as reported by the Sunday Herald Sun.

‘Nine is taking this matter extremely seriously,’ a spokesperson told the publication.

‘Appropriate action has been promptly taken, including arranging for the funds to be returned.

‘While we review the circumstances in which this occurred, Alex has agreed to stand down.’

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2025-01-20 09:18

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