Legendary investigative journalist John Pilger passes away at 84
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The world of journalism and documentary filmmaking has lost a titan.
Australian investigative journalist and documentary maker John Pilger has passed away at the age of 84, leaving behind a legacy that has shaped the landscape of modern journalism.
Born in Sydney, Australia, Pilger moved to the United Kingdom in the 1960s, where he made a name for himself as a war correspondent, covering major conflicts and political upheavals across the globe.
His work was celebrated for its unflinching honesty and commitment to uncovering the truth, no matter how uncomfortable or inconvenient it might be.
Pilger's passing was shared on his social media, stating, 'It is with great sadness the family of John Pilger announce he died yesterday, 30 December 2023, in London aged 84.’
‘His journalism and documentaries were celebrated around the world, but to his family, he was simply the most amazing and loved Dad, Grandad, and partner. Rest In Peace.'
Pilger's career spanned over five decades, during which he worked for major news outlets such as the Daily Mirror, ITV’s former investigative programme World In Action, and Reuters. His work was not limited to print and broadcast journalism; he also made a significant impact in the world of documentary filmmaking.
One of his most notable works was the 1979 ITV film Year Zero: The Silent Death Of Cambodia, which exposed the horrific crimes of the Khmer Rouge regime in Cambodia. This groundbreaking documentary brought the atrocities committed by Pol Pot's regime to the attention of the world, leading to a significant international response.
Pilger won an International Academy of Television Arts and Sciences award for his 1990s follow-up ITV documentary Cambodia: The Betrayal.
In addition to his work on international conflicts, Pilger also turned his investigative eye towards domestic issues. His 1974 documentary Thalidomide: The Ninety-Eight We Forgot shed light on the Thalidomide scandal, a medical disaster that led to thousands of children being born with severe birth defects. The documentary played a crucial role in the campaign for compensation for the victims.
Pilger's fearless journalism and commitment to truth-telling earned him the respect and admiration of his peers. Kevin Lygo, Managing Director of Media and Entertainment at ITV, said: 'John was a giant of campaigning journalism.’
‘He had a clear, distinctive editorial voice which he used to great effect throughout his distinguished filmmaking career. His documentaries were engaging, challenging and always very watchable.’
‘He eschewed comfortable consensus and instead offered a radical, alternative approach on current affairs and a platform for dissenting voices over 50 years,’ Lygo added.
‘John’s films gave viewers analysis and opinion often not seen elsewhere in the television mainstream. It was a contribution that greatly added to the rich plurality of British television.’
‘Our thoughts and condolences are with John’s family, friends and colleagues at this sad time.’
Pilger was also known for his activism and advocacy. He was a vocal supporter of WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange, even putting up the cost of his bail. His commitment to justice and truth extended beyond his professional work, demonstrating a deep personal conviction in the causes he championed.
Tributes have poured in from around the world, with many expressing their admiration for Pilger's work and his impact on journalism.
Former Pink Floyd musician Roger Waters, who has also supported Assange, paid tribute to Pilger, writing, 'John Pilger. I miss you, my friend, what a great man you were. We will carry you in our hearts forever, you will always be there to give us strength. Love R.'
As we mourn the loss of this journalistic giant, we also celebrate his life and the significant contributions he made to journalism and documentary filmmaking.
His work will continue to inspire and inform future generations of journalists, reminding us all of the importance of truth in an increasingly complex world.
We extend our deepest condolences to John Pilger's family, friends, and colleagues. His legacy will live on in the countless lives he touched through his work. Rest in peace, John Pilger. Your fearless pursuit of truth will not be forgotten.
Australian investigative journalist and documentary maker John Pilger has passed away at the age of 84, leaving behind a legacy that has shaped the landscape of modern journalism.
Born in Sydney, Australia, Pilger moved to the United Kingdom in the 1960s, where he made a name for himself as a war correspondent, covering major conflicts and political upheavals across the globe.
His work was celebrated for its unflinching honesty and commitment to uncovering the truth, no matter how uncomfortable or inconvenient it might be.
Renowned journalist and documentary maker John Pilger passed away at 84. Credit: @johnpilger / X (formerly Twitter)
Pilger's passing was shared on his social media, stating, 'It is with great sadness the family of John Pilger announce he died yesterday, 30 December 2023, in London aged 84.’
‘His journalism and documentaries were celebrated around the world, but to his family, he was simply the most amazing and loved Dad, Grandad, and partner. Rest In Peace.'
Pilger's career spanned over five decades, during which he worked for major news outlets such as the Daily Mirror, ITV’s former investigative programme World In Action, and Reuters. His work was not limited to print and broadcast journalism; he also made a significant impact in the world of documentary filmmaking.
One of his most notable works was the 1979 ITV film Year Zero: The Silent Death Of Cambodia, which exposed the horrific crimes of the Khmer Rouge regime in Cambodia. This groundbreaking documentary brought the atrocities committed by Pol Pot's regime to the attention of the world, leading to a significant international response.
Pilger won an International Academy of Television Arts and Sciences award for his 1990s follow-up ITV documentary Cambodia: The Betrayal.
In addition to his work on international conflicts, Pilger also turned his investigative eye towards domestic issues. His 1974 documentary Thalidomide: The Ninety-Eight We Forgot shed light on the Thalidomide scandal, a medical disaster that led to thousands of children being born with severe birth defects. The documentary played a crucial role in the campaign for compensation for the victims.
Pilger's fearless journalism and commitment to truth-telling earned him the respect and admiration of his peers. Kevin Lygo, Managing Director of Media and Entertainment at ITV, said: 'John was a giant of campaigning journalism.’
‘He had a clear, distinctive editorial voice which he used to great effect throughout his distinguished filmmaking career. His documentaries were engaging, challenging and always very watchable.’
‘He eschewed comfortable consensus and instead offered a radical, alternative approach on current affairs and a platform for dissenting voices over 50 years,’ Lygo added.
‘John’s films gave viewers analysis and opinion often not seen elsewhere in the television mainstream. It was a contribution that greatly added to the rich plurality of British television.’
‘Our thoughts and condolences are with John’s family, friends and colleagues at this sad time.’
Pilger was also known for his activism and advocacy. He was a vocal supporter of WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange, even putting up the cost of his bail. His commitment to justice and truth extended beyond his professional work, demonstrating a deep personal conviction in the causes he championed.
Tributes have poured in from around the world, with many expressing their admiration for Pilger's work and his impact on journalism.
Former Pink Floyd musician Roger Waters, who has also supported Assange, paid tribute to Pilger, writing, 'John Pilger. I miss you, my friend, what a great man you were. We will carry you in our hearts forever, you will always be there to give us strength. Love R.'
As we mourn the loss of this journalistic giant, we also celebrate his life and the significant contributions he made to journalism and documentary filmmaking.
His work will continue to inspire and inform future generations of journalists, reminding us all of the importance of truth in an increasingly complex world.
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