Veteran Broadcaster Steve McKinney Sr. Passes Away

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NASSAU, BAHAMAS – Steve McKinney Sr. was known nationwide for his contributions to journalism, including national and sports news.

His broadcasting career spanned several decades, beginning as a teenager, when he started working at the Tribune.

He later joined the Broadcasting Corporation of The Bahamas, where he held several positions, eventually rising to news director.

McKinney would go on to create McKinney Media Group, serving as its president and CEO.

It was through his work at Peace 107.5 FM, which he operated from his home, that many listeners came to know and love shows like “Hard Copy” and “The Last Word.”

When we stopped by today, we met his son, and Our News cameraman and editor, Stephen McKinney Jr., who was sitting in his father’s chair, keeping the very station on the air that so many Bahamians have listened to for years.

He also shared family photographs, offering a glimpse into the life of the man behind the microphone.

McKinney’s influence extended well beyond the airwaves, helping to shape the careers of many journalists, including Michelle Malcom.

Michelle Malcom – President, Bahamas Union of Teachers

“Steve came in and I guess brought a new fresh perspective to sports, and he was a quick learner and like I said we became friends because we were both in the department and I just watched him as a sportscaster, as a journalist.”

Another journalist, Vaughn Albury, says McKinney was a childhood friend.

Vaughn Albury – Consultant, Broadcasting Corporation of The Bahamas

“He is the face of the new talk shows that became what is today’s media landscape, Steven McKinney did it all.”

McKinney also helped to establish the Sports Journalists’ Association for The Bahamas and the Bahamas Press Club.

Former colleague, Dr. Debra Bartlett shared with us what made McKinney the ideal journalist.

Dr. Debra Bartlett – Former Journalist

“He always had charisma. He had his quiet strength, but he was fearless. He was courageous, he believed in what he believed even when there’s conflict, he challenged the government because whatever he felt was right he stood by them right or wrong.”

Prime Minister Philip Davis offered condolences in a social media post, saying McKinney believed in free expression and the public’s access to information.

Meanwhile, Free National Movement leader, Michael Pintard also sharing that McKinney was a son of the soil who proudly represented his Chippingham community.