Creator of the iconic news magazine program 60 Minutes, known for its in-depth reporting and investigative journalism. This program has been a staple of American television for over 50 years.
Don Hewitt, the renowned American television news producer and executive, is best known for creating the iconic CBS television news magazine 60 Minutes in 1968, a program that remains the longest-running primetime broadcast on American television to this day. Under his innovative leadership, 60 Minutes became the only news program to ever reach the top rank of television programs, an achievement it accomplished five times.
Donald Shepard Hewitt was born on December 14, 1922, in New York City, New York, to Frieda (née Pike) and Ely S. Hewitt, a Jewish immigrant from Russia. His family moved to Boston, Massachusetts, shortly after his birth, where his father worked as a classified advertising manager for the Boston Herald American. Hewitt's family later relocated to Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He graduated from New Rochelle High School in New Rochelle, New York.
Hewitt attended New York University and began his journalism career in 1942 as head copyboy for the New York Herald Tribune. He joined the United States Merchant Marine Academy in 1943 and served as a journalist for Stars and Stripes in London. After World War II, Hewitt returned to his job as copyboy for the Tribune, then worked for The Associated Press at a bureau in Memphis, Tennessee.
Hewitt soon received a lucrative offer at the CBS television network, which was seeking someone with his unique skillset. He started working at CBS, where he would go on to produce the first televised presidential debate in 1960. This milestone marked the beginning of his journey to create a groundbreaking news program that would change the face of journalism.
On September 24, 1968, 60 Minutes premiered, with Hewitt at the helm as the executive producer. The program's unique format, which featured in-depth reporting and investigative journalism, resonated with audiences and critics alike. Under Hewitt's leadership, 60 Minutes became a staple of American television, winning numerous awards and accolades, including 78 Emmy Awards.
Hewitt was a firm believer in the power of storytelling and its ability to shape public opinion. He once said, "The most important thing in our business is the guy who's telling the story. You can have the most beautiful pictures in the world, but if the guy telling the story is not good, it's not going to work." This philosophy guided his approach to journalism and is reflected in the success of 60 Minutes.
Hewitt was married to Mary Weaver, whom he met while working in Memphis. He had two sons, Jeffrey and Steven, and was known for his wit and sense of humor. Hewitt passed away on August 19, 2009, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire journalists and producers today.
Don Hewitt's contributions to journalism and television news have been immense. He revolutionized the way news is presented and consumed, and his creation, 60 Minutes, remains an iconic program that continues to set the standard for investigative journalism. His influence on modern society is evident in the way news is reported and presented today, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations of journalists and producers to come.
Hewitt received numerous awards and honors for his work, including 78 Emmy Awards, the Alfred I. duPont-Columbia University Award, and the Peabody Award. He was inducted into the Television Hall of Fame in 1998 and received a Lifetime Achievement Emmy Award in 2000.
Don Hewitt's life and legacy are a testament to his innovative spirit, journalistic prowess, and dedication to telling stories that matter. His impact on television news and journalism will be felt for generations to come.
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