Bill Moyers, a renowned journalist and former White House press secretary, passed away at the age of 91 in a New York City hospital. His son, William, confirmed that Moyers had been battling a long illness and succumbed to it at Memorial Sloan Kettering.
Moyers had a diverse career that spanned from being a Baptist minister to serving as the deputy director of the Peace Corps. He also worked as Johnson’s press secretary and later became a newspaper publisher. However, it was his work in television that truly showcased his talent. With a plethora of PBS programs, Moyers delved into a wide range of topics, from government corruption to modern dance, from drug addiction to media consolidation, and from religion to environmental abuse.
One of his most notable works was the 1988 series “The Secret Government,” which shed light on the Iran-Contra scandal during the Reagan administration. He also gained acclaim for his interviews with religious scholar Joseph Campbell and poet Robert Bly. His series “Healing and the Mind” had a significant impact on the medical community and medical education.
Known for his “soft, probing style,” Moyers was a humanist who approached his investigations with a calm and reasoned perspective. Despite being labeled as a liberal due to his connections with Johnson and public television, as well as his bold approach to investigative journalism, Moyers preferred to see himself as a “citizen journalist” operating independently outside the establishment.
Throughout his career, Moyers received numerous accolades, including over 30 Emmys, 11 George Foster Peabody awards, and induction into the Television Hall of Fame in 1995. His journey from sports writing in his high school newspaper to becoming a legendary journalist was marked by a deep commitment to truth and justice.
Born in Hugo, Oklahoma, Moyers started his career as a sportswriter before graduating from the University of Texas and pursuing a master’s in divinity. His relationship with Johnson began during his college years, leading to various roles in the Johnson administration, including press secretary. However, he resigned from the White House in 1966 due to the government’s focus on the Vietnam War.
Moyers’ foray into television began with “Bill Moyers Journal” and continued with “CBS Reports” and PBS programs. In 1986, he and his wife, Judith Davidson Moyers, founded Public Affairs Television, producing insightful programs on a variety of subjects. Their collaboration extended beyond work, as Judith became his creative partner and president of their production company.
In the 21st century, Moyers continued to engage with audiences through programs like “Now” and a podcast covering pressing issues such as racism, voting rights, and the political landscape. His legacy as a fearless journalist and storyteller lives on, inspiring generations to seek truth and justice in the world.
