Investigative journalist and author, known for exposing corporate and government scandals, and writing about Canadian politics and history.
Walter Stewart, a veteran journalist, writer, and educator, left an indelible mark on Canadian journalism with his unapologetic and forthright reporting style. With a career spanning over four decades, he penned over twenty books, several of which became bestsellers, earning him the reputation as Canada's conscience.
Born on April 19, 1931, in Toronto, Ontario, Stewart grew up in a family of writers and Cooperative Commonwealth Federation activists. His parents, Miller and Margaret Peg Stewart, instilled in him a strong sense of social justice and a critical eye for the establishment.
Stewart's foray into journalism began in high school, where he co-wrote a muckraking column, "The Lads Who Know," with a classmate, criticizing teaching methods in their school. This early experience would lay the groundwork for his future critiques of authority and institutions.
After dropping out of the University of Toronto, Stewart joined the Toronto Telegram as a reporter, where he quickly became disillusioned with the news trade. He lambasted the industry for its hypocrisy, exaggeration, and fakery, and criticized the way news was tailored to appeal to advertisers and publishers.
Stewart's transition to Macleans magazine in 1968 marked a significant shift in his career, where he became known for his in-depth investigative reporting and critiques of Canadian politics and society. His work at Macleans earned him a reputation as a fearless and unflinching journalist, unafraid to challenge the status quo.
Stewart's writing was underpinned by a strong sense of social justice and a commitment to exposing the truth, no matter how uncomfortable it may be. He believed in the power of journalism to hold those in power accountable and to give voice to the marginalized and oppressed.
Stewart's legacy extends far beyond his own writing. He inspired a generation of journalists and writers to adopt a more critical and nuanced approach to storytelling, and his work continues to influence Canadian journalism and politics to this day.
"The job of the journalist is to afflict the comfortable and to comfort the afflicted." - Walter Stewart
Stewart's passing on September 15, 2004, was met with an outpouring of tributes from across the country, with The Globe and Mail eulogizing him as "Canada's conscience." His unflinching commitment to journalistic integrity and his tireless critiques of authority continue to inspire and provoke Canadians to this day.
91 Years Old
A renowned Canadian journalist and academic, he hosted the popular CBC Radio program "Morningside" and wrote several books, earning him a reputation as a witty and insightful commentator on Canadian culture and society.
95 Years Old
Acclaimed author of novels and screenplays that often explored Jewish identity and Canadian culture, known for his witty, satirical, and poignant storytelling. His works include the Apprenticeship of Duddy Kravitz and Barney's Version.
Born in 1920
A renowned Canadian journalist and author who wrote extensively on Canadian history and culture, making it accessible and engaging to a broad audience.
Born in 1924
A pioneering journalist, author, and activist who championed social justice and women's rights, leaving a lasting impact on Canadian society.
56 Years Old
A renowned Canadian comedian, actor, and writer, best known for his satirical news program "This Hour Has 22 Minutes" and his witty, humorous takes on Canadian politics and culture.
