Geraldo Rivera
Geraldo Rivera, an illustrious figure in American journalism, has etched a remarkable trail of groundbreaking work throughout his career. Born on July 4, 1943, in New York City, Rivera rose from a humble background to become one of the most recognized faces in broadcast journalism. His parents, Cruz and Lillian Rivera, instilled in him an ardent zeal for social justice issues, which became a defining characteristic of his future work.
Rivera launched his career in journalism working at WABC-TV as a news reporter where his fearless reporting style quickly drew attention. His breakthrough came when he exposed the deplorable conditions of Willowbrook State School, an institution for mentally disabled children, leading to significant reforms in the care and treatment of such individuals. This achievement paved the way for Rivera's meteoric rise, with him subsequently joining ABC News and then hosting the talk show Geraldo. He further cemented his reputation with his Emmy-winning show Geraldo at Large and his involvement in Fox News.
Despite facing controversy and criticism, Rivera's commitment to journalism never wavered. His investigative reports have often stirred public debate and led to meaningful changes. In addition to his journalistic endeavors, Rivera authored several books that offer insights into key social and political issues. With a career spanning over five decades, Geraldo Rivera continues to be an influential voice in American media, leaving an indelible imprint on the landscape of broadcast journalism.