Graham “Richo” Richardson, a former Labor senator for New South Wales and influential powerbroker who held multiple portfolios from the late 1980s to the 1990s, has passed away at the age of 76. He served as a cabinet minister during the Hawke and Keating governments throughout his parliamentary career.
After leaving politics, Richardson became a prominent political commentator and was a regular contributor to Sky News Australia for nearly 15 years. His frank yet charismatic analysis of political affairs was highly regarded.
“During his almost 15 years delivering his frank yet charismatic commentary on political affairs on Sky News, Richo added an insight, expertise, and depth that enhanced political discourse in Australia,” said Sky News chief executive Paul Whittaker.
“His uncompromising style and enviable ability to call the election result, often before anyone else, cemented him as a key fixture of Sky News’ election night coverage, while his contributions across the network helped shape Sky News into the leading destination for live political news coverage it is today.
“Richo was an inspiring and loyal member of the Sky News team whose presence in the newsroom, and on our screens, will be greatly missed.”
Ben Fordham, a presenter on 2GB, expressed his shock upon hearing the news during a live broadcast on Saturday.
“This has come as a huge shock to me,” Fordham said. “We were regular lunch companions.”
Graham Richardson's legacy as a candid political voice and sharp electoral forecaster left a significant impact on Australian politics and media.