Richard Richard Dimbleby English journalist and presenter Date of Birth: 24.05.1913 Country: Great Britain

1. Richard Dimbleby: A Broadcasting Pioneer
2. Wartime Reporter
3. A Broadcasting Legend
4. Panorama and Beyond
5. Public Advocate
6. Legacy

Richard Dimbleby: A Broadcasting Pioneer

Richard Frederick Dimbleby was born on May 25, 1913, near Richmond, London. Coming from a family of journalists, he began his career at the Richmond and Twickenham Times in 1931.

Wartime Reporter

In 1936, Dimbleby joined the BBC as a news reporter and became its first war correspondent in 1939. He covered the Battle of El Alamein and the Normandy landings, making some 20 bombing sorties with the Royal Air Force. Dimbleby was the first to report from the liberated Bergen-Belsen concentration camp.

A Broadcasting Legend

After the war, Dimbleby transitioned to television and became a leading news commentator for BBC. He covered major events such as the coronation of Elizabeth II and the funerals of George VI, John Kennedy, and Winston Churchill. He also hosted the first Eurovision Song Contest and the live broadcast from the Soviet Union.

Panorama and Beyond

In 1955, Dimbleby became the host of Panorama, the world's longest-running current affairs programme. He used his journalistic skills to interview key figures, presenting comprehensive analyses and conducting insightful interviews.

Public Advocate

Dimbleby's 1965 documentary and public admission of his cancer diagnosis helped raise awareness and funding for research. The Richard Dimbleby Cancer Fund was established in his honor. The annual Richard Dimbleby Lecture features influential public figures, such as Terry Pratchett in 2010.

Legacy

Richard Dimbleby passed away on December 22, 1965, at age 52, from lung cancer. His sons, David and Jonathan Dimbleby, have followed in his footsteps as prominent journalists and broadcasters. Dimbleby's journalistic legacy continues to inspire generations with his professionalism, integrity, and passion for the truth.