What makes A Current Affair a staple of Australian television? A Current Affair, or ACA, has been a significant part of Australian TV since its debut on November 22, 1971. Initially hosted by Mike Willesee, the show quickly became known for its engaging and sometimes controversial content. Over the years, ACA has evolved, featuring various hosts like Jana Wendt, Ray Martin, and Mike Munro. The program covers a wide range of topics, from community issues to sensational stories, often sparking public debate. Despite facing criticism for sensationalism, ACA remains a key player in Australian journalism, reflecting and influencing societal attitudes.
Key Takeaways:
- A Current Affair, a long-standing Australian TV show, has evolved through host changes, controversies, and societal impact, reflecting and influencing cultural attitudes and journalistic practices.
- Despite criticism, A Current Affair remains a relevant and influential force in Australian media, engaging with community issues, shaping public discourse, and adapting to changing times.
The Beginnings of A Current Affair
A Current Affair (ACA) has been a cornerstone of Australian television for decades. Let's dive into its origins and early years.
- First Broadcast: A Current Affair first aired on November 22, 1971, on the Nine Network.
- Original Host: The program was initially hosted by Mike Willesee, who presented it until 1974.
- Format Evolution: The show initially aired weeknights at 9:30 PM but shifted to 7:00 PM in 1972.
- Comedic Segment: For part of its early run, the comedian and actor Paul Hogan had a comic social commentary segment.
- Transmedia Production: Under Willesee, ACA was a Transmedia production for the Nine Network.
Changes and Challenges in the 1970s
The 1970s saw significant changes and challenges for ACA, including host changes and eventual cancellation.
- Mike Minehan: When Willesee left Nine in 1974 to move to the rival 0–10 Network (now Network 10), journalist Mike Minehan took over presenting ACA.
- Sue Smith and Kevin Sanders: Other hosts included Sue Smith and Kevin Sanders during this period.
- Michael Schildberger: Michael Schildberger also hosted ACA from 1974 to 1978.
- Cancellation in 1978: The original ACA was cancelled on April 28, 1978, due to strong competition in the 7:00 PM timeslot from Willesee at Seven on Seven Network and Graham Kennedy's Blankety Blanks on the 0–10 Network.
Revival and New Beginnings in the Late 1980s
After a decade-long hiatus, ACA made a strong comeback in the late 1980s with a new host and format.
- 1988 Revival: The show was revived in 1988 with former 60 Minutes presenter Jana Wendt taking over on January 18, 1988.
- Direct Competition: The Seven Network introduced direct competition with Real Life, which later became Today Tonight.
- Jana Wendt’s Departure: Jana Wendt left the program in November 1992, unhappy with an ACA story showing topless women.
The 1990s: A Decade of Change
The 1990s brought more changes in hosts and a focus on sensational stories.
- Mike Willesee’s Return: In 1993, original ACA host Mike Willesee took over for the whole year.
- Ray Martin’s Tenure: In February 1994, Ray Martin took over and signed off at the end of November 1998.
- Mike Munro’s Hosting: From 1999 to 2002, Mike Munro hosted ACA.
Criticism and Controversies
ACA has faced its share of criticism and controversies over the years, often accused of sensationalism.
- Criticism of Sensationalism: Like Today Tonight, ACA is often criticized for using sensationalist journalism and presenting advertising as editorial content.
- Community Issues Focus: Stories covered by ACA typically rotate around community issues such as diet fads, miracle cures, welfare cheats, shonky builders, negligent doctors, poorly run businesses, and corrupt government officials.
- Paxton Family Controversy: In 1996, the show reported on the Paxton family from the impoverished Melbourne suburb of St Albans. The family received death threats after being portrayed as "dole bludgers" refusing reasonable employment offers.
- Greg Hodge Defamation Case: In September 2006, ACA was ordered to pay over $320,000 to former Australian swimming coach Greg Hodge in relation to indefensible defamatory allegations made in a 2003 story.
Modern Era and Current Hosts
ACA continues to adapt and evolve, with new hosts and a continued focus on community issues.
- Current Hosts: As of 2023, the program is currently hosted by Allison Langdon and Deborah Knight on Saturday nights.
- Format and Duration: The show airs for 30 minutes, including commercials.
- Network Affiliation: It is broadcast on the Nine Network, one of Australia's major television networks.
Impact on Journalism and Society
ACA has had a significant impact on Australian journalism and society, often pushing boundaries and sparking debate.
- Impact on Journalism: The show has been a significant player in Australian journalism, often pushing boundaries and sparking controversy.
- Tabloid Journalism Accusations: In 1986, The New York Times described ACA as "tabloid journalism at its best," highlighting its zippy and knowledgeable style.
- Sensationalism and Advertising: The show has faced criticism for blurring the lines between advertising and editorial content, a practice that has been exposed by media watchdogs like ABC's Media Watch.
Cultural and Historical Significance
ACA's long history has made it a cultural touchstone in Australia, reflecting and influencing societal attitudes.
- Controversial Reporting: ACA has been involved in several high-profile defamation cases and has faced allegations of sensationalism and unethical reporting practices.
- Community Engagement: Despite the controversies, the show remains a staple of Australian television, engaging with community issues and providing a platform for various stories and investigations.
- Historical Significance: As one of the longest-running current affairs programs in Australia, ACA has played a significant role in shaping public discourse and influencing journalistic practices.
- Cultural Impact: The show has also had a cultural impact, often reflecting and influencing societal attitudes towards various issues, from health and welfare to politics and social justice.
- Legacy and Relevance: Despite ongoing criticism, ACA continues to be relevant in contemporary Australian media, adapting to changing times while maintaining its commitment to investigative journalism and community engagement.
The Legacy of A Current Affair
A Current Affair has been a cornerstone of Australian television since 1971. With its mix of hard-hitting journalism and sensational stories, it has both captivated and divided audiences. From Mike Willesee's original hosting to the current presenters, the show has seen many changes. It's faced criticism for sensationalism and blurred lines between advertising and editorial content. Yet, it remains a significant player in Australian media, tackling community issues and sparking public discourse. Despite controversies, its impact on journalism and culture is undeniable. A Current Affair continues to evolve, reflecting and influencing societal attitudes. Its legacy is a testament to its enduring relevance and ability to adapt to changing times. Whether you love it or hate it, A Current Affair is here to stay, continuing to shape the landscape of Australian current affairs television.
Frequently Asked Questions
Was this page helpful?
Our commitment to delivering trustworthy and engaging content is at the heart of what we do. Each fact on our site is contributed by real users like you, bringing a wealth of diverse insights and information. To ensure the highest standards of accuracy and reliability, our dedicated editors meticulously review each submission. This process guarantees that the facts we share are not only fascinating but also credible. Trust in our commitment to quality and authenticity as you explore and learn with us.