News

CTV Executive News Editor/Chief Anchor

Steve Murphy Stepping Down


Steve Murphy (Source: CTV News Atlantic )
CTV News graphic
(Source: CTV New Atlantic)
USPA NEWS - On September 21, 2021, CTV News Atlantic’s Executive News Editor and Chief Anchor for the CTV New AT 6, Steve Murphy, announced that he would be stepping down from his position after over 4 decades in the broadcast industry. He advised that his last appearance on the evening news would be on November 30th. Murphy will continue to make contributions to the CTV Atlantic with special projects.
Steve Murphy has covered news in Atlantic Canada through some of the darkest and tragic events that have occurred in the region. Such events include: the Westray Disaster in Plymouth, Nova Scotia, Swiss tragedy off of Peggy's Cove, Nova Scotia, the horrific events of September 11, 2001, many serious crime stories, and significant weather events. Steve Murphy would always strive to provide the most accurate information while displaying a genuine compassion and empathy for those impacted. In many situations he would also point out how Atlantic Canadians would band together to help and support one another in times of need. That said, Murphy was not afraid to ask the tough questions when interviewing politicians, leaders and other influential people in order to hold them accountable to the audience tuning in to the newscast. Murphy admittedly said that he has “agitated the air” over the years during some of his interviews.
Steve Murphy said “I am grateful to the news team and our leadership for supporting my decision to make this change and begin to focus my attention on special projects for the station. CTV has an unrivalled commitment to news at the local, regional, and national levels, and while I’m stepping away from daily newscasts, I’m excited to continue to be part of the exceptional team at CTV News Atlantic in this new position.”
Dan Appleby, News Director for CTV News Atlantic said, “Steve Murphy is one of the best in the business. Not just in Canada, but anywhere. He has helped shape a generation of journalists through his thoughtful guidance and dedication to excellence. His long-standing editorial leadership at CTV News Atlantic, and his role as the Maritimes’ most-trusted news anchor, are hallmarks of his incredible legacy.”
Trent McGrath, General Manager, CTV Atlantic said, “Steve has made an incredible mark on the region. He is a true Maritimer who feels genuinely connected to those who welcome him into their homes nightly. He’s a respected leader, not only in journalism, but also in his conscientious commitment to the community.”
My first interaction with Steve Murphy was during the Westray Disaster in 1992. At that time, I was a resident of Plymouth, Nova Scotia living directly accross from the mine. The media was set up at the Plymouth Community Centre and I visited the media area and had a couple of conversations with Steve Murphy. I told him that I had an interest in broadcasting and that I was volunteering at a local cable station. I was still in high-school, but was looking at colleges. He encouraged me to stay focused on my goal. He was very genuine in his remarks. About a year later I applied for Video Production Arts at a local college and was accepted for the fall semester.
Aside from future "special project" contributions to CTV, Steve Murphy will continue to work closely with the charities that are near and dear to his heart such as the United Way and Christmas Daddies.
Although, Steve Murphy has stepped down as Chief Anchor to work behind the scenes on special projects for the network, Atlantic Canadians will continue to follow the adventures of this legendary broadcasting personality.
On November 30, 2021, Steve Murphy signed off for his last time as Chief Anchor for the CTV Evening News At Six by ending with these words to his viewers, “From my colleagues on both sides of our cameras, good night and be well.”
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