URGENT UPDATE: The death of Australian sports reporter Duncan McKenzie-McHarg, who tragically fell from a Los Angeles building last month, has now been ruled a suicide. He was 41 years old. This shocking revelation has left family, friends, and fans reeling.
On the morning of September 12, 2023, McKenzie-McHarg fell from the top of a building in a central area of Los Angeles, landing on the roof of another structure. The Los Angeles County Coroner’s Office confirmed the circumstances surrounding his death, which has raised urgent questions regarding mental health and the pressures faced by public figures.
In a heartfelt statement, his family expressed their devastation, calling his death an “unimaginable shock.” They described Duncan as a “deeply loved son, a devoted father to his precious boy Harrison, and a cherished brother.” They emphasized his extraordinary character, stating, “Duncan was truly extraordinary — a man whose positivity, care, and humour touched everyone he met.”
McKenzie-McHarg was a prominent figure in sports journalism, working for the Australian streaming service Stan, where he covered Grand Slam tennis and conducted interviews with elite players like Aryna Sabalenka, Carlos Alcaraz, and Iga Swiatek. A spokesperson for Stan expressed deep sadness over his passing, stating, “Duncan was a valued contributor to Stan Sport, and our thoughts are with his family, friends, and colleagues at this very difficult time.”
Before his role at Stan, McKenzie-McHarg worked with major Australian television networks, including Channel 7 and Network 10, as well as Fox Sports in the United States. His career began on the Australian radio station Triple M Melbourne, where he co-hosted the “Hot Breakfast” show alongside renowned broadcaster Eddie McGuire. McGuire described McKenzie-McHarg’s death as “heartbreaking and devastating,” noting his ability to connect with the world’s biggest stars and build an international career from scratch.
As the community mourns the loss of this talented journalist, discussions around mental health and the pressures within the sports industry are becoming increasingly urgent. Friends and colleagues are coming together to remember Duncan’s infectious spirit and dedication to his craft.
WHAT’S NEXT: As tributes pour in, calls for heightened awareness of mental health issues in sports journalism are expected to gain momentum. The impact of McKenzie-McHarg’s death will likely resonate throughout the industry, prompting conversations about the support systems available for journalists facing similar pressures.
This developing story underscores the importance of mental health awareness, particularly in high-stress professions. The sports community is coming together to honor Duncan McKenzie-McHarg’s legacy while advocating for better support for individuals struggling with mental health challenges.
