#EMMA SUPPORTER
Sir Trevor McDonald OBE
Trevor McDonald was born as George McDonald on 16 August 1939 in San Fernando, Trinidad and Tobago. Sir Trevor McDonald OBE is a pioneering British broadcaster and journalist whose career has spanned over six decades. He has broken many barriers and has set new standards within the media industry. He became an EMMA patron, and supported our social cohesion work within society. As our patron, he also appreciated EMMA’s work for creative industries’ inclusion.
Trevor grew up in a working-class family of mixed African and Indian descent; he was raised in Trinidad before moving to the United Kingdom in the early 1960s to pursue a career in journalism.
Initially working as a reporter for the BBC World Service, Trevor significantly impacted Caribbean audiences and, in 1969, moved to London to broaden his reach in British media. His break into British television came in 1973 when he joined Independent Television News (ITN) as a reporter, quickly making history as one of the first Black journalists at the organisation. Trevor’s early career was marked by high-profile assignments, including reporting on global conflicts and political upheavals such as the Troubles in Northern Ireland and various international crises.
Trevor’s breakthrough came in 1992 when he became the sole presenter of News at Ten, ITN’s flagship news program, a position he held until 2005. His dignified and authoritative style and ability to connect with viewers made him one of the most trusted faces in British journalism.
As a news anchor, Trevor garnered a reputation for his calm professionalism, handling major national and international stories with impartiality and insight. Alongside his anchoring duties, he hosted the current affairs program Tonight with Trevor McDonald, which ran for over a decade and featured in-depth documentaries on global politics and social justice issues.
Trevor’s exceptional interview skills allowed him to engage with world leaders such as Nelson Mandela, Muammar Gaddafi, and Saddam Hussein, making him one of the most respected journalists of his time.
Beyond his work on News at Ten, Trevor presented various documentaries focusing on British and international stories. His 1999 documentary The World’s Most Wanted Man about the search for Saddam Hussein was particularly well-received, earning Trevor multiple accolades for his sensitive and informed approach.
Trevor’s other notable documentaries examine the Caribbean, his homeland, the Mississippi River, and the Mediterranean, showcasing his versatility and passion for exploring diverse cultures and regions. His work has always gone beyond traditional news reporting; his ability to blend factual journalism with storytelling has made his documentaries highly impactful and widely viewed.In recognition of his outstanding contributions to journalism, Trevor was knighted in 1999, becoming the first Black British person to receive such an honour for services to broadcasting.
His career was further celebrated when he was awarded the BAFTA Fellowship in 2011, which is the highest honour the British Academy can bestow. Over the years, Trevor has become a significant role model in British journalism. He is admired for his professional achievements, dignity, and commitment to promoting diversity in the media.
As a public figure, Trevor has been involved in various charitable endeavours, supporting causes related to education, diversity, and social justice. His work advocating for diversity, particularly in the media, has been instrumental in opening doors for future generations of journalists from diverse backgrounds.
As of 2025, Sir Trevor McDonald remains a respected figure in British media. He continues to engage with audiences through various projects and mentors younger journalists.
Trevor’s influence on the industry, particularly in shaping the role of Minority journalists in mainstream media, remains significant, and his legacy continues to inspire journalists and broadcasters worldwide.
Through his career, Sir Trevor McDonald has left an indelible mark on journalism. He is known for his integrity, professionalism, and dedication to telling compelling, important stories.
