Richard Carlson: Remembering a Controversial Figure in TV Journalism
Richard Carlson, a prominent and sometimes controversial figure in West Coast television journalism, died at his residence in Florida on Monday following a prolonged illness. His passing was announced by his son, Tucker Carlson, a well-known conservative commentator.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born on February 10, 1941, Carlson faced adversity early in life. After being placed in an orphanage at birth, he spent years in foster care before being adopted by a family in Norwood, Massachusetts. His adoptive father, who managed a tannery, passed away when Carlson was just 12 years old. This loss contributed to a turbulent childhood, leading him to juvenile delinquency and a stint in prison for car theft by the age of 17. Eventually, he enlisted in the Marine Corps and later became a merchant seaman.
Carlson’s professional journey began as a copy boy at the Los Angeles Times, where he formed a journalistic partnership with Carl Brisson, resulting in a significant investigative report that implicated former San Francisco Mayor Joseph Alioto in organized crime.
Television Career
Transitioning to television, Carlson joined KABC in Los Angeles as an investigative reporter, where he gained recognition, receiving a Peabody Award for outstanding reporting on automotive fraud. He later worked at KGO in San Francisco and KFMB in San Diego, establishing himself as a recognizable face in California journalism.
One of his most notable—and controversial—stories involved G. Elizabeth Carmichael, a transgender woman involved in the development of an electric vehicle during the energy crisis of the 1970s. Carlson’s investigative report not only explored Carmichael’s business dealings but also revealed her transgender identity. Despite the backlash regarding his decision to disclose Carmichael’s gender identity, Carlson remained unapologetic about his actions, comparing the normalization of such behaviors to that of serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer.
Furthermore, while at KFMB, he reported on Renée Richards, a transgender professional tennis player, after her victory in a women’s singles tournament. Carlson’s decisions to out these individuals sparked significant public debate about ethics in journalism.
Life After Journalism
Disillusioned by the sensationalism that often dominated media coverage, Carlson moved away from journalism shortly after the Richards story in 1984. He expressed frustration over the media’s focus on scandal rather than substantive issues. Following his departure, he briefly ventured into politics, unsuccessfully running for mayor of San Diego in 1984.
In the years that followed, Carlson served in the Reagan administration, including a five-year tenure as the director of the Voice of America. His diplomatic career culminated in his appointment as U.S. Ambassador to the Seychelles. Later, he took the helm at the Corporation for Public Broadcasting in 1992, which funds public media initiatives.
In the late 1990s, Carlson joined King World Productions, where he contributed to the syndication of major television shows including “The Oprah Winfrey Show.” He also played a significant role with the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies, a think tank advocating for neoconservative policies.
Legacy and Personal Life
Richard Carlson is survived by his two sons, Tucker and Buckley, and five grandchildren. His complex legacy is marked by both investigative rigor and contentious ethical considerations, making him a notable figure in journalism history.