NDP Leader Jack Layton appeared with Beverly Thomson on Canada AM on April 19, 2011. The Canadian Press
Canadian journalist and longtime CTV News anchor Beverly Thomson has died at the age of 61. She passed away on Sunday morning, surrounded by family, after a long battle with cancer. Thomson was widely respected for her interviews with politicians, celebrities, and Canadian icons.
A Career Spanning Decades
Thomson’s career at CTV News spanned over 30 years. She began as a reporter in Toronto and later anchored the CTV News Channel. She was also a familiar face on the network’s morning show, “Canada AM.”
During her career, Thomson covered major events, including the 2016 U.S. presidential election. She interviewed high-profile figures such as Celine Dion, Shania Twain, Donald Trump, and Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield. Her on-air presence was known for being warm, engaging, and professional.
Recognition and Awards
In October last year, Thomson received a lifetime achievement award from the Radio Television Digital News Association of Canada. Then-RTDNA Canada president Lis Travers called her “one of Canada’s most respected news personalities,” highlighting her contribution to Canadian journalism.
Richard Gray, Vice-President of News at Bell Media, described Thomson as “a trusted voice and a valued teammate to all of us at CTV News.” He praised her natural on-air style, saying it created “an immediate connection with viewers” and noted her active support for cancer charities.
Tributes from Colleagues
Thomson’s former “Canada AM” colleagues Jeff Hutcheson, Marci Ien, and Seamus O’Regan shared heartfelt memories. They called her “a good and kind and thoughtful friend” who persevered through years of cancer treatment while continuing to work on air.
“The four of us spent three hours together every morning, live on air, five days a week, for years and years,” they said. “She could scrap with politicians and give as good as she got.”
They added, “She fought so hard, chin up. On tough mornings back then we’d always ask her what we could do, but we always knew the answer: get on with the job. So we did. We always carried each other.”
Legacy and Impact
Thomson leaves behind a legacy of excellence in Canadian journalism. She was admired not only for her reporting but also for her advocacy work and her courage in facing illness while remaining committed to her profession. Colleagues, viewers, and the wider media community will remember her warmth, professionalism, and dedication.
