The Canadian broadcasting world is mourning the loss of one of its most respected and familiar voices. Beverly Thomson, a longtime journalist and anchor for CTV, has passed away at the age of 61 after a courageous battle with cancer. Surrounded by her loved ones, Thomson died peacefully, leaving behind a remarkable legacy built on professionalism, compassion, and a deep commitment to truthful storytelling.
CTV News confirmed her passing, noting that Thomson’s presence on Canadian television for more than three decades made her one of the most trusted figures in the nation’s media landscape. Known for her calm demeanor and sharp intellect, she earned the admiration of viewers and colleagues alike.
Thomson’s career began in earnest in the late 1990s when she joined Global News, where she quickly established herself as a talented and reliable broadcaster. From 1997 to 2003, she covered everything from local news to national affairs, building the foundation for what would become a defining career. She later joined CTV, where her work as an anchor and interviewer would elevate her to national recognition.
Over the years, she became a familiar face on CTV News Toronto, Canada AM, and the CTV News Channel, where her warmth, clarity, and professionalism set her apart. She had a unique ability to connect with both her interview subjects and her audience — a skill that made her interviews not just informative but deeply human.
Her career was filled with memorable moments. Thomson conducted in-depth conversations with some of the most prominent names in entertainment, politics, and science, including Celine Dion, Shania Twain, Donald Trump, and Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield. Whether she was discussing world events or sharing stories of personal triumph, Thomson brought empathy, intelligence, and authenticity to every exchange.
Her coverage of major events — including the 2016 U.S. presidential election — was widely praised for its depth and composure, further establishing her as one of Canada’s most respected broadcast journalists. Former RTDNA Canada president Lis Travers described her as “one of Canada’s most respected news personalities — a journalist who combined grace and integrity in everything she did.”
In recognition of her outstanding contributions to journalism, Beverly Thomson received the RTDNA Canada Lifetime Achievement Award in October 2023. The honor celebrated not only her career achievements but also the influence she had on a generation of young journalists who looked up to her as a mentor and role model.
Following news of her passing, tributes poured in from across the media industry. Bell Media’s vice-president of news, Richard Gray, expressed deep sorrow, calling Thomson a “trusted voice and a valued teammate to all of us at CTV News.” He added, “Beverly’s professionalism, kindness, and unwavering dedication to her craft made her a cornerstone of Canadian journalism. She will be profoundly missed.”
Friends and colleagues described her as compassionate, genuine, and quietly inspiring — a woman who faced life and illness with extraordinary courage. Even in her final years, she remained an advocate for health awareness and the importance of optimism in the face of hardship.
Beverly Thomson’s passing leaves a void not just in Canadian media, but in the hearts of the countless viewers who welcomed her into their homes every day. Her voice informed, comforted, and inspired — and her legacy will continue to shape Canadian journalism for years to come.
She is remembered not only for her professionalism, but for her humanity — the rare blend of strength and warmth that defined both her life and her career.