Veteran broadcaster Lisa Wilkinson, 66, returns to the public eye after years of relative quiet. She discusses the pressures of intense media scrutiny, her path to recovery, and a compelling new book that provided vital distraction during tough times.
A Passion Project Emerges Amid Challenges
Wilkinson reveals mixed feelings of nervousness and excitement over her latest endeavor, The Titanic Story of Evelyn. The book chronicles Evelyn Marsden, the only Australian-born survivor of the RMS Titanic disaster in 1912, where over 1,500 lives were lost.
This project surfaced right in the midst of prolonged legal battles. “Spending a lot of time with lawyers really isn’t the best way to live,” Wilkinson states frankly. The idea struck suddenly, pulling her into historical research when she needed it most.
“Delving into someone else’s life became a wonderful distraction,” she explains. “I was everywhere in the press and sick of myself—I can’t imagine how others felt.”
Deep Connection to Evelyn’s Resilience
Evelyn’s tale of survival, rowing desperately against the tide, struck a chord with Wilkinson. “That moment made me fall in love with her story,” she says. She dedicates the book to “every woman, like Evelyn, who has ever rowed against the tide.”
Researching the Titanic tragedy offered vital perspective. “Dealing with loss on that scale puts personal troubles into sharp relief,” Wilkinson notes.
Standing by the Brittany Higgins Interview
Wilkinson reflects on her 2021 The Project interview with Brittany Higgins, which sparked widespread debate. She harbors no regrets despite the emotional strain. “I had rough days, but never that doubt,” she affirms. “I’m not on the Titanic fighting for my life—I’m just defending my work.”
One key outcome fills her with pride. She offers heartfelt support to Higgins: “I wish her all strength after what she’s endured repeatedly. She keeps standing up. I have nothing but admiration for her.”
Abrupt Departure from The Project
Addressing her 2022 exit, Wilkinson clarifies Channel 10 made the call to take her off air. “It wasn’t my decision at all,” she states. Forced to announce it live without warning, she steeled herself. “When given no choice, you push forward.”
Away from the spotlight, Wilkinson embraces a simpler life alongside husband Peter FitzSimons.
