Veteran journalist and Today Tonight star dies after being diagnosed with leukemia
His son Liam announced the sad news on Sunday after Michael passed away with his wife Cecile and Liam by his side.
'He never lost his fighting spirit, as he continued to defy the odds,' he said.
'Michael, who committed a lifetime to giving a voice to those without one or who he believes needed a louder one, spent his final days reflecting on a life well lived with his close friends and family.
'Whilst our hearts are shattered in pieces, we know we will mend them as we commit to continuously remembering and celebrating a great husband, friend, father, father-in-law, and grandfather at every opportunity.'
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Many others also shared tributes to Michael on social media after news of his death emerged.
'A sad farewell to another wonderful colleague and person. I was fortunate to work with Michael for a couple of years on a series called Wild Life for Beyond Productions and the 9 network,' Simon Reeve wrote.
'He was a delightful fellow, a fine reporter and someone who loved animals. Michael was best known more recently for his important role with the RSPCA in Queensland over 20 years. Deepest sympathies to Michael's wife Cecile and son Liam.'
Another said: 'Vale, Michael Beatty. A true gentlemen, advocate for animals, and one heck of a storyteller - if you've read his book, you'll know!
'The man went everywhere, met everyone, did everything and always had an epic story to tell about it. He truly earned the moniker, "Michael Beatty. Legend".'
Michael had been battling lung cancer since 2018 before recently being diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia.
He spent almost 30 years reporting on current affairs programs including This Day Tonight, Today Tonight and The 7:30 Report.
He also worked as a producer on Good Morning Australia and State Affairs.
Michael has interviewed the likes of David Bowie, The Rolling Stones and Michael Jackson.
In 2019, Michael was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia for his work in animal advocacy.
In 2004, he locked himself in a car with RSPCA chief inspector Byron Hall to draw attention to the dangers of leaving pets unattended.
They eventually exited the vehicle after temperatures hit 70 degrees.
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