“One of the true gentlemen of television”: Melissa Downes pays tribute to ‘Lofty’
Melissa Downes fought back tears as she paid tribute to colleague, Andrew Lofthouse.
- Published by David Knox
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Nine’s Melissa Downes last night paid tribute to colleague and co-presenter Andrew ‘Lofty’ Lofthouse who yesterday announced his retirement.
“Now for some news that is very close to home,” she said, before the tears began to well up. “The chair beside me is tonight empty because our dear friend and colleague, Andrew Lofthouse is retiring… I thought I would at least get through the intro.
“One of the true gentlemen of television, ‘Lofty’ broke the news today, revealing, after a lot of thought, he’s signing off. Calling time on an extraordinary career covering Queensland’s biggest moments.
After a montage of Lofty’s 17 years at Nine, she added, “On behalf of all your friends here at Nine and all the Queenslanders who’ve invited you into their homes each night at 6:00 for so long, thank you. Congratulations. Enjoy retirement, more time with your beautiful family and life on the other side of the screen.”
Some news that is very close to home.
Our dear friend and colleague Andrew Lofthouse is retiring. #9News pic.twitter.com/TNZ6IqwOZu
— 9News Queensland (@9NewsQueensland) January 20, 2025
- Tagged with Nine News
