Legendary Australian journalist John Pilger dies aged 84, after battling long illness
Legendary documentary maker John Pilger died on Saturday at the age of 84 after a long illness.
The iconic journalist's family released a heartbreaking statement on social media informing fans that he passed away in England over the weekend.
“It is with great sadness that the family of John Pilger announce that he passed away in London on December 30, 2023,” they began.
'His journalism and documentaries were celebrated around the world. But to his family he was simply the most wonderful and beloved father, grandfather and partner. Rest in peace,” they added.
Many of Pilger's fans quickly took to the comments section to express their condolences.
Legendary documentary maker John Pilger (photo) died on Saturday at the age of 84 after a long illness
“What an amazing journalist, fighter and an inspiration to all,” one fan wrote, with a second person adding: “A true human giant.”
“Thank you, dearest John, for the most dedicated outstanding contribution to humanity,” a third person interjected.
Pilger was born on October 9, 1939 in Sydney, Australia, the younger of two boys.
The iconic journalist's family released a heartbreaking statement on social media informing fans that he passed away in England this weekend
His career began in Australia in the late 1950s as a freelance journalist, before moving to London to further his career in the early 1960s.
He became known for his commitment to exposing and exposing injustice and abuse of power, especially in the fields of politics and international affairs.
Pilger's work often focused on issues of human rights, social justice and the impact of political decisions on ordinary people.
He also wrote for several news publications including the Daily Telegraph, the Daily Mirror and the New Statesman.
“It is with great sadness that the family of John Pilger announce that he passed away in London on December 30, 2023,” the statement read.
His work covered a wide range of topics, including the Vietnam War, apartheid in South Africa and the plight of indigenous peoples.
Pilger is recognized for his fearless and uncompromising approach to journalism, and has received numerous awards for his documentaries and reporting.
Many of his critically acclaimed documentaries took hard looks at political issues, including The Quiet Mutiny (1970), Stealing a Nation (2010) and The War You Don't See (2014).
In 1991 he was honored with a BAFTA Award for his powerful documentary work.
He is survived by his long-term partner, journalist Yvonne Roberts, and his two children, Sam and Zoe.
He became known for his commitment to exposing and exposing injustice and abuse of power, especially in the fields of politics and international affairs.