Veteran journalist and columnist Phillip Adams has been dismissed from his long-held position at The Weekend Australian, marking the end of a remarkable fifty-year career with the publication. His sudden departure has sparked a mix of surprise and nostalgia among readers and colleagues alike, as many reflect on his substantial contributions to Australian media.
Adams, who has been a prominent voice in journalism since the 1960s, expressed his dismay at the news through social media. “Why can’t I find me in the Oz’s Weekend Magazine? Oh, that’s right, I’ve been sacked,” he tweeted, humorously adding, “The order of the boot. The rough end of the pineapple. Shown the door. Made to walk the plank…” This marks the second time he has faced dismissal from the publication owned by media mogul Rupert Murdoch.
Legacy of Controversy and Insight
Adams has been a polarizing figure in Australian journalism, known for his keen insights and adventurous commentary. He began his career reviewing television for The Australian under editor Adrian Deamer, later transitioning to The Age for a period before returning to his original publication in 1982. Despite his often contrarian views, Adams remained uncensored throughout his tenure, a rarity for his distinctly left-leaning perspective in a publication known for its conservative stance.
His unique style blended humor with serious commentary, often tackling complex subjects and hosting influential guests during his time on ABC‘s Late Night Live. Adams has been recognized not only as a journalist but also as a film producer, advertising executive, and a provocateur who challenged political norms.
A Farewell Unceremoniously Delivered
Despite the significant length of his career, many are questioning the nature of his departure. After half a century of service, there was no formal farewell or acknowledgment of his contributions. Some have suggested that a simple gesture, such as a gold watch or a signed card from the editor, would have been an appropriate way to honor his legacy.
At 84 years old, Adams’s exit has prompted reflections on the themes of aging and relevance in journalism. As one commentator noted, “After 50 years, you’d think they’d at least send a farewell bone.” His career has been marked by a consistent ability to adapt and provoke, even as he navigated the evolving landscape of media.
With his departure, readers of The Weekend Australian may feel the absence of his articulate and often controversial viewpoints. As the media landscape continues to shift, Adams’s legacy as a steadfast commentator may linger in the memories of those who followed his work. The farewell is bittersweet, serving as a reminder that even the most influential voices eventually find their time to step back.
