Renowned Australian author and filmmaker John Pilger has passed away at the age of 84, as confirmed by his family. Pilger’s family shared the news on his social media accounts, expressing their deep sadness. Known for his investigative journalism and documentaries celebrated worldwide, Pilger was not only a distinguished professional but, to his family, he was a beloved father, grandfather, and partner. His son, journalist Sam Pilger, expressed his heartbreak, remembering his father as his hero.
Pilger, a BAFTA winner, dedicated his career to impactful investigations, covering diverse topics such as the challenges faced by Aboriginal Australians, American and British foreign policies, and the hidden motives of big businesses. Born in Bondi, Sydney, Australia, Pilger worked for Reuters and the Daily Mirror in the UK during the 1960s, earning recognition as the youngest journalist to receive Britain’s Journalist of the Year award twice.
Throughout his career, Pilger reported on global events, including wars in Vietnam and upheavals in the U.S. His impactful documentaries and books, such as “Year Zero: The Silent Death Of Cambodia” and “The New Rulers of the World,” shed light on injustice and official lies. His extensive contributions earned him accolades like the Richard Dimbleby BAFTA award in 1991 and the Sydney Peace Prize.
Pilger’s work received praise from notable figures like Martha Gellhorn and Noam Chomsky, highlighting his dedication to justice and his role as a beacon of light in challenging times. Survived by his son Sam and daughter Zoe, both accomplished writers, John Pilger leaves behind a legacy that transcends his professional achievements—a legacy marked by courage, insight, and a commitment to revealing uncomfortable truths.
