It came at the end of their 6 PM show Thursday, when they threw to a special goodbye video from their just released former anchor, the now-bearded Alan Carter (See pic below.)

Here's what he had to tell viewers:

"Recent changes at Corus have meant the elimination of my current position at Global. And after careful consideration, I've decided that now is the time for something new for me.

I've had incredible experiences working at Global Toronto for the past 25 years. I started my career at Global as a crime reporter, tracking many cases over years to shine a light on some of the most difficult stories in the city. 

You welcomed me into your homes in the early hours of the day for five years, when I was morning show anchor. For two years, I watched from behind the scenes as Managing Editor, helping to shape our entire team's reporting. 

As Queen's Park Bureau Chief, I chased the stories that were important to the province, working to hold three different governments accountable to the public. 

And I proudly hosted Focus Ontario for more than a decade. I've had the privilege of being witness to history, covering everything from championship runs to election campaigns to the global pandemic. 

I have been lucky to host this program (Global News at 6) for the last nine years. And I especially want to say "thank you" to you, the viewers. Anyone who's ever come up to me on the street to say "hi" or sent me a note. Your support and your trust, has meant the world to me. 

So what's next for me? I don't know - might keep this beard! The future is wide open. And that is exhilarating. I know I'll see you again soon. 

Thank you."

It was a classy way to go - no complaints about the people who let him go and in return, a chance to do what rarely if ever happens when someone is turfed without much notice after so many years on the air - give a proper send-off. (Paging Lisa LaFlamme!) 

So congrats to both Carter and the network. It's the kind of thing you don't get to see very often.