Roger Climpson, one of Sydney’s most recognisable broadcasters, has died aged 93.
Best known for anchoring 7NEWS and hosting This Is Your Life and Australia’s Most Wanted, Climpson built a career that stretched across decades and left a lasting mark on Australian television.
Climpson joined Seven in the 1960s as a newsreader and became a household name for his calm delivery and engaging style.
He later co-anchored Seven’s Nightly News in Sydney with Ann Sanders, adding to his reputation as a steady presence in Australian living rooms.
Warmth behind the desk
Sanders, now host of Seven’s Afternoon News in Sydney, reflected on their time together: “Roger was a highly respected newsreader with great presence and reach to the television audience who adored him.
“He was an absolute gentleman on and off camera – warm, quick witted and kind, and it was a privilege to work alongside him.”
Mark Ferguson, co-anchor of 7NEWS Sydney, shared his own connection: “Like so many families we watched Roger most nights for many years. As a teenager in Tamworth, he helped me open a window to a wider world.
“A few years later as a cadet journo I remember interviewing him when he came to town. I think he was lead story that night on the local news – he was a big deal. Then down the track I was working alongside him in the Sydney newsroom.”
He added: “For a nervous country kid, Roger was very warm and very welcoming. Behind the desk he was all class – informed and engaging, with a voice that made you sit up and listen. Our condolences to his family, friends and the many viewers, who I’m sure thought of Roger as a trusted friend.”
Marking a golden era
7NEWS Sydney News Director Geoff Dunn described Climpson as central to the network’s history: “Roger Climpson was the trusted face of 7NEWS, defining a golden era of broadcast television and playing a central role in how we stayed informed. He stood out as one of Australia’s most authoritative news presenters.
“For our viewers, he also felt like a friend with a beaming smile and his trademark wink as he said good night. From everyone at 7NEWS, we offer our sincere condolences to Roger’s family.”