Bill Moyers, the former press secretary to President Lyndon B. Johnson who became a respected broadcast journalist and strong supporter of public media, has died at the age of 91, his family told CNN.
His son, William Moyers, said he passed away from complications related to a long illness. His wife of nearly 71 years, Judith Davidson Moyers, was with him at the time.
Moyers was known as a pioneer in public television, hosting several versions of Bill Moyers’ Journal on PBS in the 1970s and again in the 2000s. Walter Cronkite once called him “the conscience” of the country.
Bill Moyers was an esteemed American journalist, political commentator, and former White House Press Secretary known for his deep, thoughtful approach to public affairs and his commitment to exploring the moral and ethical dimensions of American life. Born on June 5, 1934, in Hugo, Oklahoma, Moyers grew up in Texas and earned degrees in journalism and theology, reflecting his lifelong interest in both communication and spiritual inquiry.
Moyers began his career in politics, serving as special assistant and then Press Secretary under President Lyndon B. Johnson during the 1960s. He played a key role in advancing Johnson’s “Great Society” programs, including civil rights and anti-poverty initiatives. Despite his early political work, Moyers later became a leading figure in American broadcast journalism, carving out a legacy with his insightful interviews and documentaries.
Over a career spanning decades, Moyers became a trusted voice through programs like Bill Moyers Journal, Now with Bill Moyers, and Moyers on America, which aired primarily on PBS. His work often focused on democracy, media influence, religion, social justice, and the intersection of power and morality. Unlike many mainstream journalists, Moyers emphasized long-form interviews and storytelling, giving space to intellectuals, historians, authors, and everyday citizens whose voices were often marginalized.
A staunch advocate for independent journalism, Moyers was a frequent critic of corporate media consolidation and political corruption. He challenged both right-wing and centrist narratives and was particularly passionate about preserving democratic values and civic engagement. His thoughtful critiques of war, economic inequality, and government secrecy earned him both praise and criticism across the political spectrum.
Moyers has received over 30 Emmy Awards, several Peabody Awards, and numerous honorary degrees in recognition of his contributions to journalism and public service. He retired from regular broadcasting in 2015.
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