'PBS NewsHour' founder Jim Lehrer dead at 85
Lehrer founded the flagship PBS news program in 1975 and served as anchor until he retired in 2011
Longtime "PBS NewsHour" anchor Jim Lehrer passed away Thursday at age 85, the network announced.
Lehrer cofounded the flagship PBS news program with Robert MacNeil in 1975 and served as anchor until he retired in 2011.
"I'm heartbroken at the loss of someone who was central to my professional life, a mentor to me and someone whose friendship I've cherished for decades," said Judy Woodruff, anchor and managing editor of the "PBS NewsHour." "I've looked up to him as the standard for fair, probing and thoughtful journalism and I know countless others who feel the same way."
Lehrer speaks during a 2008 presidential debate in Oxford, Mississippi. (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)
Lehrer moderated more presidential debates than anyone else, a total of 12, according to PBS.
"Jim exemplified excellence in journalism throughout his extraordinary career," PBS President Paula Kerger said. "A true giant in news and public affairs, he leaves behind an incredible legacy that serves as an inspiration to us all."
GET FOX BUSINESS ON THE GO BY CLICKING HERE
A Wichita, Kansas, native, he served in the Marine Corps for three years as an infantry officer. He married his wife Kate in 1960, and the couple had three daughters, Jamie, Lucy and Amanda.