Lisa LaFlamme's Replacement Had His First Broadcast As Anchor & Acknowledged All Of The Drama
"We typically cover the news but lately we have become the subject of it."
Omar Sachedina in Washington, D.C. Right: Lisa LaFlamme.
The replacement for former CTV news anchor Lisa LaFlamme just had his first broadcast and shared a message with viewers about all of the drama.
Omar Sachedina's first night as the national news anchor on Monday, September 5, included a moment where he spoke directly to the camera to address the recent controversy that has plagued the station.
"We typically cover the news, but lately we've become the subject of it," he began. "Over the past few weeks, Canadians have been having important discussions about ageism, sexism and racism."
Sachedina then said that the ability and willingness to have these conversations and to learn from them "is one of the hallmarks of this great country."
The new anchor explained that his family was welcomed into Canada after leaving Uganda and that his appearance on the national news "validates the promise of possibility."
After calling attention to the agency's mission to share stories "objectively, with balance and different perspectives," Sachedina addressed his predecessor.
"It is important for me to acknowledge the inspiration and mentor that Lisa LaFlamme has been to me over the years," he said. "Lisa, thank you for everything."
He then added, "Like many of you, I really wish Lisa's goodbye could have been from here."
Sachedina finished off his statement by promising that he and the CTV News team will work hard to "earn" the privilege of being broadcast into the homes of Canadians across the country.
The message comes after the recent controversial firing of LaFlamme, 58, after she had spent nearly 11 years as CTV National News anchor. LaFlamme took up the role back in 2011 when her predecessor, Lloyd Robertson, retired at age 77 after 35 years at the post.
The move stirred conversations about ageism and sexism in Canada, with many critics suggesting that it had something to do with LaFlamme's grey hair. It prompted several companies like Wendy's and Dove to come out in support of going grey.
This article's cover image was used for illustrative purposes only.