Context:

Bill Moyers, a prominent television journalist and commentator, passed away at the age of 91 in Manhattan. He was best known for his role as President Lyndon B. Johnson's press secretary during the Vietnam War buildup and his subsequent career in broadcast journalism, where he tackled issues like corruption in democracy, poverty, and climate change. Moyers was celebrated for his unique style, often described as a 'secular evangelist,' and his documentaries earned him numerous awards, including over 30 Emmy Awards. Despite his reserved nature, Moyers's interviews with poets, philosophers, and educators were influential, particularly his PBS series, 'Joseph Campbell and the Power of Myth.' Throughout his career, Moyers was seen as a moral voice in journalism, although he faced criticism from conservatives for perceived bias in his work.

Dive Deeper:

• Bill Moyers began his career as a press secretary for President Lyndon B. Johnson, playing a significant role in the development of the Great Society programs and being present during crucial moments like the swearing-in of Johnson after Kennedy's assassination.

• After resigning from the Johnson administration in 1966 due to irreconcilable differences, Moyers transitioned to journalism, where he became a renowned television correspondent known for his in-depth exploration of societal issues such as income inequality and the influence of money in politics.

• Moyers's work in broadcast journalism was marked by his soft-spoken yet impactful interviewing style, earning him comparisons to Edward R. Murrow and winning him over 30 Emmy Awards for his documentaries on PBS and CBS.

• His series 'Joseph Campbell and the Power of Myth' was a groundbreaking success, drawing millions of viewers and bringing mythologist Joseph Campbell to public prominence, showcasing Moyers's ability to make complex ideas accessible to a broad audience.

• Throughout his career, Moyers maintained a focus on giving a voice to 'regular people' and exploring ethical themes, which endeared him to many as a moral conscience in journalism, despite facing accusations of bias from conservative critics.