Chris Smith and Ray Martin have paid tribute to their long-time friend and colleague Mike Willesee.

The veteran journalist has lost his battle with throat cancer aged 76.

Throughout his career, he became known as a fearless interviewer and pioneer of current affairs television.

Chris Smith reflects on being in the room when the famous ‘birthday cake’ interview was recorded.

Willesee became known for the interview, where he cornered then opposition leader John Hewson on the issue of GST.

Ray Martin, who worked with Willesee at the ABC, says it’s an example of his immense talent as an interviewer.

“That was a groundbreaker in that election… it may well have cost the Liberal Party the whole government.”

Click PLAY below to watch the ‘birthday cake’ interview

Chris also reflects on his time working with Willesee on A Current Affair.

Click PLAY below to listen to Chris Smith and Ray Martin share stories about the veteran journalist