Jim Lehrer

 

Easton Press Jim Lehrer books

A Bus of My Own - signed first edition - 1992
The Special Prisoner - signed first edition - 2000

Jim Lehrer biography

Jim Lehrer, born James Charles Lehrer on May 19, 1934, in Wichita, Kansas, was a prominent American journalist, author, and television news anchor. He was best known for his role as the co-anchor of the "MacNeil/Lehrer Report" and its successor, the "PBS NewsHour," which he co-founded with Robert MacNeil. Lehrer grew up in a military family, with his father serving in the United States Navy. He attended Victoria College in Texas and then studied journalism at the University of Missouri, where he graduated with a bachelor's degree in journalism in 1956.

Lehrer began his journalism career as a newspaper reporter, working for various publications before joining the Dallas Morning News in 1959. He later transitioned to television journalism, working as a correspondent for the National Public Affairs Center for Television (NPAT) in Washington, D.C. In 1973, Lehrer teamed up with Robert MacNeil to co-anchor the MacNeil/Lehrer Report on PBS. The program, known for its in-depth analysis and balanced reporting, quickly gained a reputation for excellence in journalism. In 1983, the show was renamed the MacNeil/Lehrer NewsHour and later became the PBS NewsHour in 2009. Lehrer's approach to journalism was characterized by his fairness, integrity, and commitment to providing viewers with thoughtful and comprehensive coverage of important issues. He moderated numerous presidential debates, earning praise for his skillful and even-handed approach.

In addition to his work in television journalism, Lehrer was also a prolific author, writing more than 20 novels, memoirs, and plays throughout his career. His novels often explored political and historical themes, reflecting his deep interest in American society and politics.

Jim Lehrer retired from the PBS NewsHour in 2011 after anchoring the program for nearly four decades. He continued to be involved in journalism and writing, serving as a moderator for several presidential debates and contributing essays and articles to various publications. Lehrer received numerous awards and honors throughout his career, including several Emmys, the George Foster Peabody Award, and the National Humanities Medal. He was respected and admired by colleagues and viewers alike for his dedication to journalistic excellence and his unwavering commitment to informing the public.

Jim Lehrer passed away on January 23, 2020, at the age of 85. His legacy as one of the preeminent figures in American journalism lives on, and his contributions to the field continue to inspire and influence journalists around the world.