Canadian Media Icon Rex Murphy Passes Away at 77

Journalist Rex Murphy. The Canadian Press/HO, CBC, Dustin Rabin

Veteran journalist and author Rex Murphy passed away on May 9.

Mr. Murphy, a long-time CBC host, was a prolific public speaker and writer, penning columns for The Epoch Times and the National Post.

“It’s hard to believe. I communicated with him on Tuesday about his next article. He was always authentic and gracious to work with,” said Adam Ainsworth, an opinion editor with The Epoch Times.

“Rex captured the heart of Canada. He made significant contributions to journalism in this country, and his columns were always greatly enjoyed by our readers.”

Born in Carbonear, Newfoundland, in 1947, Mr. Murphy had a long career with the CBC, hosting CBC Radio One’s “Cross Country Checkup” and providing commentary on “Point of View” on CBC Television’s flagship program “The National.”

Mr. Murphy graduated from the Memorial University of Newfoundland with a degree in English in 1968 and studied law for a year at Oxford University as a Rhodes Scholar.

Upon his return to Newfoundland, he started his career as a writer and broadcaster.

He also tried his hand at politics, running for office in provincial elections twice in the 1980s, without succeeding. For a time, he also worked as a political staffer, including as executive assistant to the leader of the Liberal Party of Newfoundland in the 1980s.

Mr. Murphy’s passing was reported by the National Post, saying he died of cancer.

“Rex Murphy was one of the most intelligent and fiercely free-thinking journalists this country has ever known,” former Prime Minister Stephen Harper wrote on social media in reaction to Mr. Murphy’s passing.

“Laureen and I extend our deepest condolences to Rex’s family and loved ones.”

Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre said Mr. Murphy will be “dearly missed.”

“Canada has lost an icon, a pioneer of independent, eloquent, and fearless thought, and always a captivating orator who never lost his touch,” Mr. Poilievre said on X.

Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Andrew Furey expressed his sympathies for the passing of fellow Newfoundlander Mr. Murphy on social media.

“Newfoundlanders and Labradorians are mourning one of our own tonight, and sending condolences to his family and friends. Rex Murphy’s quick wit and mastery of words were unmatched, and his presence was significant—whether or not everyone always agreed,” he said.

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, a former journalist herself, was among the first to react to the news.

“Alberta’s government and her people send our condolences and love to the family, friends, and colleagues of Rex Murphy,” Ms. Smith wrote on X.

“Canada will never have a voice like his again—as a proud Newfoundlander he championed what he believed to be right for our country and was always a good and true friend to Alberta.”

Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe noted Mr. Murphy’s support for the West, saying he cared about all parts of Canada.

“Rex Murphy, born in Newfoundland before it even entered Confederation, was a strong advocate for western Canada. That’s because he was a fiercely proud Canadian who believed every part of Canada should be treated fairly because every part of Canada makes our nation stronger,” Mr. Moe wrote on social media.

Former Chief of the Defence Staff General Rick Hillier said the country is “so much lesser without this good man’s presence,” while Conservative MP Chris Warkentin called his passing “a loss of a legend.”

Bob Rae, Canada’s ambassador to the United Nations, a former NDP Premier of Ontario, and former interim leader of the federal Liberal Party, said he always admired Mr. Murphy, even if he didn’t always agree with him.

“I first met Rex Murphy when we were both interviewed on TV in 1978. He stole the show,” Mr. Rae said on X. “We disagreed about many things, but I never lost my affection and admiration for him. He loved Newfoundland and Canada and was fearless. Rest in peace Rex.”

Fellow journalists also paid tribute to Mr. Murphy, noting his great talent for writing and sharp wit.

“Rex Murphy wrote to end writing,” columnist David Staples said on X. “Hero of the left. Then hero of the right. Always his own man.”

Mr. Murphy’s fearless writing was also praised by veteran journalist Alan Fryer.

“An unmatched wordsmith with the ability to strike fearlessly at the heart of any matter. RIP Rex,” Mr. Fryer wrote.