One of ABC’s familiar late night faces is preparing to sign off, with Mike Tetlow announcing he’ll leave the broadcaster after more than eight years on air.
In a candid Facebook post, Tetlow said the demands of working until midnight five nights a week had taken their toll, with spending more time with his family ultimately driving the decision to begin a new chapter outside television news.
After more than eight years with ABC, Tetlow said the time felt right to make a change, revealing he will soon take up a communications role with the Rottnest Island Authority in Western Australia.
Tetlow joined ABC in 2018 when the broadcaster’s national Late News bulletin began originating from Perth, and has also been a familiar face presenting the WA 7pm news, weather updates and programs on ABC Radio Perth.
Before that, he held roles with Channels 10, 9 and 7, along with the BBC, Reuters and ITN during a stint in London.
Reflecting on the decision, Tetlow said spending more evenings with his sons Josh and Sam had become increasingly important, while also paying tribute to his wife Rochelle for supporting the demands of a career built around late night television.
“But the time is right for a change. See you at the Rotto Bakery!”
Tetlow also thanked his ABC colleagues, saying many had become close friends, and reflected on the connection he had built with viewers and listeners throughout his time at the broadcaster.
He added that the career he dreamed about as a teenager in the 1990s had taken him further than he could ever have imagined.
We also wish Mike all the best in his new role, and thank him for his support as a TV Blackbox reader.
