Dan McLean, the veteran Canadian news anchor who spent 37 years as the face of CHCH News, has died at the age of 78. The legendary broadcaster passed away in hospital, with tributes pouring in for the iconic figure online.
A Storied Career in Broadcasting
McLean, who died at an Owen Sound hospital on Friday, April 24, began his broadcasting journey at just 15 years old, securing a part-time radio position in Welland. He gained experience across various Ontario locations, including Barrie and Kitchener, before joining CHCH, where he would become a household name.
During his 37-year tenure at CHCH, McLean presented midday talk shows and fronted news bulletins. He also played a crucial role in the CHCH team that helped raise millions of dollars for McMaster Children's Hospital and numerous charities.
Co-Anchor and Accolades
McLean co-presented the CHCH Evening News alongside Connie Smith for many years. His contributions earned widespread recognition, including an RTDNA Lifetime Achievement Award, the Queen's Jubilee Medal, and Hamilton's Citizen of the Year award in 2001. Reflecting on that honour, McLean said: "Hamilton's Citizen of the Year, that's probably the one I'm the most proud of. When your peers and your neighbours and your community says that you have done enough to warrant this honour, I truly feel honoured."
His final CHCH broadcast aired in December 2008. As he signed off, McLean said: "I would like to say thank you to our viewers for allowing me into your homes year after year. It has been my great honour."
Tributes from Colleagues and Viewers
Heartfelt tributes have poured in across social media. One Facebook user wrote: "He was always a positive, cheerful fella whenever I'd bump into him at the TV station... He set an example for us, other broadcasters to volunteer our time also, and showed a level of professionalism for us to aspire to."
A former colleague added: "Rest in Peace Dan McLean. Really great guy, always a pleasure to work with and be around, lots of fun times and memories." Another shared a memory of meeting McLean on a flight to Cuba, saying: "I watched CHCH news faithfully just to see him and Connie. Sad to hear you passed. RIP Dan Mclean."
Legacy and Memorial
McLean's family will hold a celebration of his life at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory to McMaster Children's Hospital, United Way of Canada, Juravinski Cancer Centre, or Brightshores Health System Owen Sound Foundation are welcomed. CHCH described McLean's "voice as legendary, his style impeccable and his career unforgettable."
