“I’m not leaving on that note”: Technical glitch cuts ABC newsreader Ian Henderson’s sign off short
Technical issues were apparently to blame for veteran newsreader Ian Henderson’s final bulletin being cut short on Thursday night.
After appearing in studio with Neil Mitchell on Thursday (see below) to discuss how he was going to sign off for the final time in 26 years, the ABC broadcast that night froze and switched to the Sydney news.
“The autocue went and that was the first sign of a mortal failure,” Hendo said.
“The only option was to get people onto another output.
“We couldn’t even get out an explanation of what happened, that’s what saddens and disappoints me.
“I’m not going to leave on that note.”
He confirmed to Neil he’ll do the whole bulletin again tonight.
Click PLAY below to hear Hendo’s explanation
Now, as I was saying before we were so rudely interrupted: back tomorrow night to ice this properly! Love you all ❤️
— Ian Henderson (@HendoABC) October 11, 2018
It’s unbelievable! @HendoABC has his last bulletin after 27 years behind the desk killed by technology! But fear not. Another chance to farewell him tomorrow night. Why can you do?! @abcnews pic.twitter.com/BdvfTcJDZt
— Paul Higgins (@PaulHiggins) October 11, 2018
Gremlins messed with @HendoABC last bulletin, but friends, family, and VIPs are here. Word is the legend may be back for one more? 38 years at @abcnews. Now that’s an innings! #Hendo #ABC #Melbourne@abcmelbourne pic.twitter.com/jteCZ4YF0X
— Norman Hermant (@NormanHermant) October 11, 2018
After 40 years in journalism and more than 25 years as the face of the ABC in Melbourne, Henderson planned to read his last news bulletin on Thursday night.
Neil Mitchell asked if ‘Hendo’ had planned his sign off.
“I’m still thinking about that, I’m not going to give you that sort of scoop Neil!” He said.
“I think the clincher was the thought of doing another six hour live election broadcast in November, last time it nearly killed me.
“This time I thought I don’t think I’m up to it and I was very much of the opinion that if you can’t do the full job you need to hand over to someone else.
Tamara Oudyn will take over from Henderson.
Click PLAY below to hear the full chat