'I feel like I belong': Why TV legend Mike McCardell finally decided to become a Canadian citizen

Retired award-winning broadcaster Mike McCardell was among nearly 70 people taking the oath of Canadian Citizenship in downtown Vancouver Friday.

Despite producing and writing stories for – and about – Canadians for decades, McCardell, born in New York, says he never got around to becoming a citizen.

“I kept putting it off. I love Canada. I’ve written about Canada, I’ve talked to Canadians,” said McCardell, who retired earlier this year. “I love everything about it. It’s just, today was the day.” 

McCardell could be seen smiling throughout much of the ceremony, which included a welcome message from Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and the singing of the national anthem. The legendary broadcaster, known for his popular "Last Word" segment, tells CTV News that the day took on an extra personal meaning because of a promise he made to his late wife Valerie, who died earlier this year.

“It’s a gift to my wife because she wanted me to be Canadian and I didn’t want to put it off,” said McCardell. “When I leave here, I’m going to the cemetery and putting this (a small Canadian flag) on her grave.”

Citizenship Judge Carol-Anne Hart told CTV News it was an honour to be part of McCardell’s ceremony.

“Just such a fond feeling of somebody who’s come into my living room for so many years and produced such amazing broadcast,” said Hart. “As I said to him, he’s been a great part of our Canadian family for a long time, but today, it’s official.”

McCardell’s stories during his broadcasting career focused on finding the extraordinary in everyday people. He says being a part of a ceremony where newcomers are set to start a new chapter in their stories, only added to his special day.

“It’s beautiful. It’s wonderful. And I feel like I belong, which is a good feeling,” said McCardell.