LOS ANGELES (AP) — The world of journalism mourns the loss of Peter Arnett, a celebrated journalist whose fearless coverage of global conflicts made him a household name. Arnett, 91, passed away in Newport Beach, surrounded by family, after a battle with prostate cancer. His legacy includes a Pulitzer Prize awarded for his reporting on the Vietnam War, where he covered the conflict from the rice paddies amidst gunfire and danger.
Arnett's notoriety surged during the first Gulf War in 1991, when he delivered live updates for CNN from Baghdad, while many journalists fled the city in the face of imminent attack. His unwavering commitment to truth-telling and vivid, on-the-ground accounts made his reporting a staple for those seeking to understand the realities of warfare.
His career began in Vietnam in 1962, where he survived numerous life-threatening experiences that he recounted in captivating detail. His unique perspective as a combat journalist shaped narratives around the complexities and horrors of war.
After leaving The Associated Press in 1981, Arnett joined the fledgling CNN network, where he continued to cover major global conflicts. His controversial interviews with figures such as Saddam Hussein and Osama bin Laden showcased his fearlessness and determination.
Despite facing criticism and challenges throughout his career, including forced resignation from news networks for outspoken opinions, Arnett maintained his presence in journalism through various international platforms.
He became an instructor of journalism at Shantou University in China post-retirement, imparting his extensive knowledge to a new generation of future journalists. Born on November 13, 1934, in Riverton, New Zealand, Arnett’s journey began in local reporting, ultimately leading him into the chaos of warzones.
Arnett is survived by his beloved wife, Nina Nguyen, and their children, Elsa and Andrew, who honor his commitment to storytelling and journalism.
Arnett's notoriety surged during the first Gulf War in 1991, when he delivered live updates for CNN from Baghdad, while many journalists fled the city in the face of imminent attack. His unwavering commitment to truth-telling and vivid, on-the-ground accounts made his reporting a staple for those seeking to understand the realities of warfare.
His career began in Vietnam in 1962, where he survived numerous life-threatening experiences that he recounted in captivating detail. His unique perspective as a combat journalist shaped narratives around the complexities and horrors of war.
After leaving The Associated Press in 1981, Arnett joined the fledgling CNN network, where he continued to cover major global conflicts. His controversial interviews with figures such as Saddam Hussein and Osama bin Laden showcased his fearlessness and determination.
Despite facing criticism and challenges throughout his career, including forced resignation from news networks for outspoken opinions, Arnett maintained his presence in journalism through various international platforms.
He became an instructor of journalism at Shantou University in China post-retirement, imparting his extensive knowledge to a new generation of future journalists. Born on November 13, 1934, in Riverton, New Zealand, Arnett’s journey began in local reporting, ultimately leading him into the chaos of warzones.
Arnett is survived by his beloved wife, Nina Nguyen, and their children, Elsa and Andrew, who honor his commitment to storytelling and journalism.
