CBC today announced that award-winning journalist Ioanna Roumeliotis will join CBC News’ flagship investigative documentary program THE FIFTH ESTATE as full-time host alongside Mark Kelley and Steven D’Souza. Most recently a senior reporter with THE NATIONAL and past guest host of THE FIFTH ESTATE, her first episode in her new role will air Friday, March 7 at 9 p.m. (9:30) on CBC and CBC Gem as part of the program’s 50th anniversary season, offering a deeper look at the dark world of online extremism.
“In her nearly 30 years with CBC News, Ioanna has covered a wide range of breaking news stories and in-depth features, both local and international, with an unwavering commitment to uncovering the truth,” said Brodie Fenlon, General Manager and Editor in Chief, CBC News. “At a time when that commitment is needed more than ever, Ioanna is a welcome addition to The Fifth Estate team as our essential investigative series continues with its mission to hold power to account.”
“I am honoured and thrilled to become part of The Fifth Estate team and its towering legacy in investigative journalism. The exercise of speaking truth to power in the public’s interest relies on what I value most – unflinching journalism driven by integrity and rigorous curiosity,” said Roumeliotis. “I look forward to creating impactful content for The Fifth Estate and the wider CBC network that keeps setting the news agenda and meeting the needs of our evolving audiences. This is a new year and an incredible personal start to it. At some point, I may even stop pinching myself – but not any time soon!”
During her time with CBC News, Roumeliotis has received acclaim for her work reporting on the business model for hiring disabled workers and has led coverage of multiple breaking stories, including the Jian Ghomeshi sexual assault investigation, Canada’s #MeToo movement, the Bruce McArthur serial murder investigation and the Toronto van attack, which garnered her a Canadian Screen Award. As a guest host of THE FIFTH ESTATE, she reported on the dangers of online extremist groups targeting vulnerable minors.
Roumeliotis began her career in CBC’s local Montreal newsroom in 1995. In 2000, she moved to Toronto to become a reporter with THE NATIONAL, covering major news stories including the 9/11 attacks, and produced award-winning investigative series on cosmetic surgery and teen mental health. She also did several stints abroad at CBC’s London and Washington bureaus. Roumeliotis speaks Greek and French and holds degrees in Political Science from McGill and Journalism from Concordia University.
THE FIFTH ESTATE airs Fridays at 9 p.m. (9:30 NT) on CBC, CBC Gem, YouTube and wherever you stream CBC News. The 50th season continues on Friday, January 24, and Roumeliotis’ first episode as host will air Friday, March 7.
