Devastating reason behind ABC star presenter’s absence
Star presenter for The ABC’s The Drum, Julia Baird, has revealed in an Instagram post the reasoning behind her recent absence from screens.
Star presenter for The ABC’s The Drum, Julia Baird has revealed in an Instagram post the reasoning behind her unusual recent absence from screens.
In 2015 the Australian journalist was hospitalised and diagnosed with ovarian cancer after discovering a “mass the size of a basketball” between her belly button and spine.
Despite having surgery to remove the large tumour that same year, the 55-year-old is set to undergo another surgery this week in her latest major health battle.
The popular presenter said in a long social media message dedicated to family, friends, fans and followers, she would not be back on air until 2023.
“To all those who have written to ask why I have not been on the Drum in the past few months, thank you,” she said.
“I am due to go in for more surgery this week, and it will take a good while to recover, so I will not be back on air until next year.”
The columnist also said she would be “taking a break” from producing regular articles for The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age as well as leave from her role at Editor at Large for Harpers Bazaar.
“I truly love all of this work – making TV, creating space for important discussions, for unheard voices and untold stories, writing, editing and working with some truly excellent minds and determined, creative souls. It’s a joy and a privilege – so for those who watch, read and engage, thank you,” she said.
Stream your news live & on demand with Flash. From CNN International, Al Jazeera, Sky News, BBC World, CNBC & more. New to Flash? Try 1 month free. Offer ends 31 October, 2022 >
Ms Baird thanked Australian fans and followers for sending her well wishes and kind words.
“Being part of a community of readers, thinkers, debaters, big-hearted people, light-seekers and hunters of awe and wonder is one of the best things about being a writer and a journalist,” she said in the post.
“Anyway, signing out for a bit, and sending love.”
An overwhelming amount of industry professionals and Australian public figures sent messages and wishes for a speedy recovery to Ms Baird via Instagram.
“Sending big hugs,” wrote The Hon Julie Bishop, alongside comments from former NSW Premier Mike Baird, journalist Leigh Sales, Mama Mia’s Mia Freedman, Masterchef’s Julie Goodwin, author Tara Moss and 7 news presenter Jodie Speers, to name a few.
More Coverage
ABC host Paul Barry also commented on a similar post from Ms Baird on Twitter.
“So sorry to hear you’re going another round. It’s unfair, but you have been so brave about it, and we’re all cheering for you. See you back on The Drum soon. PB,” he said.
In 2021 Ms Baird, an international bestseller, won the Australian Book Industry’s ‘Book of the Year’ award for her memoir Phosphorescence.
Huge call for nationwide 50c fares
One party has made a huge call to roll out 50c public transport fares across the nation – a move they say will save the average Aussie thousands every year.
Dire warning after shock summer drownings
A spate of drownings at popular swimming spots in one state has prompted a major warning from authorities.
Woman to fight alleged drug death case
A woman accused of manslaughter months after a man died from a suspected “adverse” drug reaction has revealed plans to fight the allegations, a court has been told.