Legendary sports journalist Mike Gibson has passed away aged 75.

Gibson was the host of Foxtel’s The Back Page for sixteen successful years before stepping away from the role where he was a part of over 700 episodes.

He was also the host of the iconic Wide World of Sports on Channel Nine in the 1980’s and a mainstay of Sydney newspapers for decades.

At the time of his exit from The Back Page, Gibson spoke of his respect and admiration for counterparts Billy Birmingham, Peter Fitzsimons and the late Peter Frilingos.

“Billy is an absolute genius,” Gibson said.

“I will always remember some of the legendary exchanges between Peter Fitzsimons and the late Peter Frilingos in the early years, it was very funny stuff.

“Aussies treat sport seriously, but you’ve got to remember it’s not World War Three. We’ve looked at sport as a whole lot of fun. For a little show that I thought might last a couple of years, I’ve got to say, it’s been a heck of a ride.”

Yes it has.