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David Scott Simon earned widespread recognition for his outstanding work on The Wire from 2002 to 2008. He stands today as one of American broadcasting's most respected voices. His twelve-year stint at The Baltimore Sun City Desk (1982-1995) shaped his keen eye for detail that became the hallmark of his storytelling style.
This former newspaper reporter transformed into an acclaimed media figure. His book received the 1992 Edgar Award for Best Fact Crime book. The Associated Press called it "a true-crime classic".
His contributions extend to NPR, and his Wikipedia presence showcases how his age shapes his viewpoint on journalism. The MacArthur Foundation recognized his talent by naming him a Fellow in 2010, which shows how deeply he affected American media and storytelling.
Discovering a Voice in Journalism: David Scott Simon
Scott Simon started his remarkable broadcasting experience at NPR as their Chicago bureau chief in 1977. His natural talent for storytelling and passion for journalism helped him build an extraordinary career at National Public Radio that spans more than four decades. A genuine love for connecting with audiences across America drives Simon's dedication to broadcasting.
How David Scott Simon got into broadcasting
Simon's passion for meaningful journalism paved his way into broadcasting. "I love the opportunity that we have to get together with people every week to not just tell them what happens, but give them a whole range of experience in any given hour," Simon explains about his motivation. This philosophy has guided his approach throughout his career.
Simon's steadfast dedication to broadcasting excellence shines through his description of the unique bond between radio hosts and listeners: "It is never lost on me this is a very intimate thing that we do… we slip under doors and through keyholes, in a sense.
And we accompany people on drives to work and drives to school". This deep understanding of radio's personal nature has shaped Simon's distinctive broadcasting style.
Early influences and mentors
Simon values the community aspect of public radio, though specific mentors aren't well documented. His career has been enriched by countless sources who shared their stories with him. During his acceptance of the 2022 W.M. Kiplinger Award, Simon thanked "the thousands of sources who have let him into their lives and answered his questions".
NPR's broader community has played a crucial role in Simon's growth. "I want to accept this award in honor of those who give so much of themselves to make those initials NPR stand for something that nourishes millions of Americans every day". These collaborative influences have molded his broadcasting approach.
First big break in radio
Simon's career reached new heights in 1985 when he began hosting Weekend Edition Saturday. He has managed to keep this role since then, except for a brief period in 1992-1993. The Washington Post praised the show as "the most literate, witty, moving, and just plain interesting news show on any dial".
The program creates "a weekly appointment that millions of Americans have". Simon's broadcasting philosophy centers on this connection with listeners. He reflects, "There's also a wonderful obligation for companionship… a relationship we've really been able to establish with millions of Americans across the country".
The NPR Years: Building a Legacy
Scott Simon has been one of public radio's most trusted voices for almost four decades. His journey as host of Weekend Edition Saturday began in 1985, and he has built an extraordinary legacy at NPR.
Becoming a recognizable voice on NPR
Simon started as NPR's Chicago bureau chief in 1977 and soon became a familiar name to Americans nationwide. Weekend Edition Saturday thrived under his unique hosting style. The Washington Post praised it as "the most literate, witty, moving, and just plain interesting news show on any dial". Brett Martin of Time-Out New York called it "the most eclectic, intelligent two hours of broadcasting on the airwaves".
Simon's talent goes well beyond radio. He has worked with CBS Sunday Morning and hosted several PBS series including "State of Mind," "Voices of Vision," and "Need to Know." His commentary appears regularly on BBC, NBC, CNN, and ESPN.
David Scott Simon reviews and listener impact
Simon's excellence has earned him every major broadcasting award. His collection includes the Peabody, Emmy, Columbia-DuPont, Ohio State Award, Robert F. Kennedy Journalism Award, and Sidney Hillman Award. The Peabody Awards gave him a special citation for his weekly essays, which they called "consistently thoughtful, graceful, and challenging".
Simon's special connection with his audience sets him apart. "We are company," he says. "We are a source of information and enlightenment, but we are company". Countless listeners talk about growing up with his voice as part of their Saturday morning routine.
Memorable moments on air
A standout moment came in 2014 when Simon interviewed Bill Cosby. Simon gave Cosby a chance to address sexual assault allegations – Cosby responded with telling silence.
Simon's reporting has taken him to every state and five continents. He has covered wars in El Salvador, Afghanistan and the Balkans. His work during 9/11 and the Kosovo war won prestigious awards. These achievements prove he's not just a host but a journalist with remarkable versatility and courage.
Beyond the Microphone
Scott Simon's talents reach way beyond the reach and influence of his radio microphone. They include an impressive literary career and vibrant public presence. His versatility as a writer has earned him widespread recognition, particularly a James Beard Award for his article "Conflict Cuisine" in Gourmet magazine.
Books, columns, and public commentary
Simon's bibliography shows remarkable range. Sports Illustrated described his memoir Home and Away: Memoir of a Fan as "extraordinary… uniformly superb". His book Jackie Robinson and the Integration of Baseball became Barnes and Noble's Sports Book of the Year.
His novel Pretty Birds, about teenage girls during the Sarajevo siege, received glowing reviews. Scott Turow called it "the most auspicious fiction debut by a journalist of note since Tom Wolfe's". Unforgettable, his touching memoir about his mother's final days—inspired by his viral tweets to 1.25 million followers—became a New York Times bestseller.
David Scott Simon Wikipedia presence and public perception
Simon's peers and audiences hold him in deep respect. His contributions to major publications like The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and The Guardian have established his reputation as a versatile commentator. The state of Illinois awarded him their highest honor, the Order of Lincoln, in 2016.
Balancing public and private life
Simon lives in Washington D.C. with his French documentary filmmaker wife Caroline Richard, whom he married in 2000. The couple adopted two daughters from China and call themselves a Jewish family (Simon's father was Jewish, his mother Catholic). Simon's interests extend beyond his demanding career. He loves "books, theater, ballet, British comedy, Mexican cooking and 'bleeding for the Chicago Cubs'".
A Life of Meaning and Message
Scott Simon turned 73 on March 16, 1952, and his career has been full of meaning. His broadcasting career spans nearly five decades, and he sees his profession as more than just work—it's a calling that connects millions of Americans through shared experiences.
David Scott Simon age and reflections on career
The privilege of witnessing history firsthand amazes Simon. "What a life, to go see a new thing every day and then just bring it back to the campfire and tell the world about it". This view has kept him going through countless broadcasts.
The 2022 W.M. Kiplinger Award recognized his work, and he spoke about journalism's role as both a chance and duty—especially when times are divided.
Lessons learned from decades in media
Simon's trip through media has taught him that knowing how to adapt is key to great journalism. Good reporting needs more than just headlines: "We're not talking enough to people…often we're not allowing ourselves or our audience to be surprised by real people and their complexities".
Advice for aspiring journalists
Simon gives straightforward advice to new journalists: "Study and do something practical and unrelated to writing or journalism. Study mechanical engineering or archeology". He adds: "Work in a fish-gutting factory…Learn what it's like to work for tips. And read, read, read". He believes journalism runs on real-life experience—"I think both writing and journalism suffer from a lack of real world experience and view".
Conclusion
David Scott Simon stands tall in American broadcasting. His exceptional 40-year experience shows his steadfast dedication to authentic storytelling and journalistic integrity. Starting as a newspaper reporter at The Baltimore Sun and becoming an acclaimed NPR host proves how genuine passion can shape an extraordinary career.
Since 1985, Simon has hosted Weekend Edition Saturday. Millions of Americans call it their weekly ritual, and he has become a trusted companion in their homes and cars nationwide.
Simon's broadcasting approach shines through his grasp of radio's intimate nature. "We slip under doors and through keyholes," he once noted, explaining the special bond between radio hosts and listeners. This philosophy helped him earn Peabody and Emmy awards while building an exceptional connection with his audience.
Simon's talent extends beyond the microphone. His writing skills show in his diverse collection of memoirs, novels, and commentary that have earned critical acclaim and bestseller status. Despite his professional success, he lives a balanced life in Washington D.C. with his wife Caroline Richard and their two daughters.
Now at 73, Simon looks back at his remarkable career with humility and wisdom. His advice to aspiring journalists values real-life application over theoretical knowledge. "Study something practical," he suggests, along with his mantra to "read, read, read." This view captures Simon's approach to journalism: reality-based, curiosity-driven, and delivered with compassion.
Simon's legacy reaches way beyond his broadcasting achievements. Through countless Saturday mornings, he has showed how journalism can both inform and connect people. His career reminds us that as media changes faster than ever, the basics stay the same – authentic storytelling matters, human connections strike a chord, and a trusted voice can bring meaning to millions of lives.
FAQs
Q1. What is Scott Simon's primary role in broadcasting?
Scott Simon is best known as the host of NPR's Weekend Edition Saturday, a position he has held since 1985. He has become one of America's most recognized and respected voices in public radio.
Q2. How has Scott Simon's career expanded beyond radio?
Beyond radio, Simon has authored several books, including memoirs and novels. He has also contributed to major publications like The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal, and has appeared on television networks such as CBS, PBS, and BBC.
Q3. What notable awards has Scott Simon received for his work?
Scott Simon has won numerous prestigious awards throughout his career, including the Peabody Award, Emmy Award, and Robert F. Kennedy Journalism Award. He was also honored with the Order of Lincoln, which is the highest honor in the state of Illinois.
Q4. How does Scott Simon approach journalism and storytelling?
Simon emphasizes the importance of connecting with real people and understanding their complexities. He believes in the power of authentic storytelling and views journalism as both an opportunity and a responsibility, especially in today's polarized times.
Q5. What advice does Scott Simon offer to aspiring journalists?
Simon advises aspiring journalists to gain practical, real-world experience outside of writing and journalism. He recommends studying subjects unrelated to media, working in diverse fields, and reading extensively to develop a broader perspective on life and society.
