The passing of Sir Harry Evans has left a profound void in the life of Tina Brown, a prominent figure in journalism and former editor of Vanity Fair. As September 23 marks the fourth anniversary of Evans’ death at the age of 92, his impact on Brown’s life and work continues to resonate deeply within her. Reflecting on her loss, Brown describes Evans not just as a spouse, but as a “soulmate,” “mentor,” and “hero,” revealing the multifaceted role he played in shaping her personal and professional journey.
In the wake of her husband’s passing, Brown has committed herself to a meaningful pursuit—the establishment of the Sir Harry Evans Global Fellowship in Investigative Journalism. This initiative serves as a vehicle for Brown to channel her grief and honor Evans’ remarkable contributions to the field of journalism. “It’s been really hard living without Harry,” she confesses, acknowledging the emotional challenge of coming to terms with his absence. However, through the fellowship, Brown finds a sense of purpose, stating, “the way I managed to stay in good shape is by creating this legacy and this movement for him.” This effort transforms her personal sorrow into something constructive, allowing her to contribute to the future of investigative journalism.
To commemorate both the fellowship and the life of her late husband, Brown hosted a distinguished gathering at the Stanley Kaplan Penthouse at Lincoln Center. The event boasted a guest list replete with influential figures such as Hillary Clinton, Salman Rushdie, and legendary journalists Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein. This celebration was not only a tribute to Evans but also an acknowledgment of the ongoing need for courageous journalism in today’s world. The collected audience underscored the significant collaborative spirit that Evans fostered among journalists, further expanding his legacy.
The fellowship has experienced remarkable growth, receiving 1,000 applications this year compared to just 400 during its inception. This increasing interest signals a renewed commitment to investigative journalism, essential in an era often characterized by misinformation. The recipient of the fellowship will enjoy a year embedded with Reuters, showcasing a continuing tradition of journalistic rigor that Evans embodied. Brown’s commitment to cultivating the next generation of journalists is further exemplified through the launch of “Truth Tellers,” an investigative journalism summit set to take place in London.
Brown’s passion for journalism shines through her initiatives, as she insists on celebrating “great journalists who do brave and courageous work.” The upcoming summit stands as a testament to the resilience of journalism, emphasizing the necessity of bold reporting in challenging times. With each endeavor, Brown ensures that Evans’ spirit lives on, inspiring both her and others within the industry. She affirms, “Harry would be thrilled,” encapsulating the sentiment that in honoring her late husband’s legacy, she also elevates the principles that underpin journalism itself: truth, courage, and a relentless pursuit of knowledge.
In sum, Tina Brown’s dedication to her late husband through the fellowship and summits reflects not only personal healing but a broader commitment to the integrity of journalism. As she forges ahead, the memories of Evans serve not as a haunting reminder of loss but as a driving force for impactful change in the media landscape.