Bill Moyers, former White House press secretary and PBS journalist, passes away at 91

Bill Moyers, an iconic journalist known for his moral convictions and impactful PBS work, has passed away at 91.

Bill Moyers, a distinguished journalist known for his unwavering moral conviction and dedication to investigative reporting, passed away on Thursday in Manhattan at the age of 91, according to The New York Times. With a career spanning over four decades, Moyers became a prominent figure in American journalism, particularly for PBS, where he left an indelible mark on the field.

Moyers was celebrated for his deep intellectual curiosity and his concern for both the state of the world and its potential future. Throughout his career, he was vocal about his belief that mainstream media was heavily influenced by corporate interests, often reflecting biases that aligned with the right. Despite exposing corruption and the shortcomings of various political figures and institutions, Moyers remained an idealist, advocating for journalism’s crucial role in safeguarding democracy.

 

 

 

 

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Katrina Vanden Heuvel, editor and publisher of The Nation, paid tribute to Moyers, acknowledging his commitment to giving a platform to dissenting voices, both from the left and the right. "Moyers constantly reminded us of journalism’s indispensable role in our democracy," she wrote, highlighting his ability to elevate marginalized issues and challenge the political elite.

Moyers had a long association with PBS, hosting shows such as Bill Moyers Journal and Now With Bill Moyers. He also produced influential documentaries like Joseph Campbell and the Power of Myth and The Secret Government: The Constitution in Crisis, which stirred controversy for their critiques of U.S. foreign policy.

 

 

 

 

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Before his PBS career, Moyers served as the White House press secretary under President Lyndon B. Johnson and played a pivotal role in the formation of the Peace Corps. Over the years, he also worked with CBS, NBC, and MSNBC, further cementing his status as a leading figure in American journalism.

Moyers received numerous accolades, including more than 30 Emmys and a Lifetime Achievement Emmy Award in 2006. He is survived by his wife Judith, three children, and five grandchildren.