Mike Gibson dead at age 75

Gibson recorded 720 episodes as the show’s host – missing only one during his tenure.

Tributes are flowing following the death of award-winning sports journalist and broadcaster Mike Gibson at the age of 75.

He was a presenter on the show – as well as Sports Sunday – and read the news for Nine until 1988, before leaving for Channel 10, where he presented Olympics coverage in Seoul.

He was parodied by the 12th Man, Billy Birmingham, in his second album, Wired World Of Sports in 1987.

Tributes have already begun to flow for the veteran sports reporter who graced Australian television screens for decades.

Mr Gibson, affectionately known as “Gibbo”, was found dead at his NSW Central Coast home this morning, 9News reported.

“A truly wonderful writer and storyteller and a source of huge encouragement to young journalists like me”, News Corp Australia football writer Ray Gatt wrote. His incredible knowledge wasn’t restricted to Rugby League – he had a great affection for our game but he also had a great affection for other sports commentary as well.

Sports journalist Tony Squires who hosts The Back Page on Fox Sports said Gibbo was an inspiration.

“Very sad to hear of the passing of Mike Gibson“.

‘Breaking. Early reports that iconic tv journalist Mike Gibson has passed away.