RT ANNOUNCES PASSING OF ANCHOR ED SCHULTZ
MOSCOW, JULY 5, 2018 - RT America is deeply saddened to announce the passing of Edward Andrew Schultz. Ed passed away early morning on July 5 at his home in Washington, D.C.
Ed worked for decades as a prominent sports reporter, radio commentator, and TV personality. After several years as one of the most watched anchormen on MSNBC, Ed found his home at RT America in January of 2016 hosting “The News with Ed Schultz.”
Ed was a champion of the American working class. He saw government as a potential force for good, gave voice to labor unions, spoke inconvenient truths about American foreign policy, and wanted the U.S. to be a role model for the world. His time at RT America was marked by numerous high profile news events. Ed interviewed Patriarch Kirill on the first ever meeting of the Russian Orthodox Church and the Roman Catholic Pope, co-hosted coverage of the Brexit vote with Larry King, reported live from Red Square in Moscow during Russia’s 72nd Victory Day anniversary, and covered the UK’s general election from Edinburgh. Ed also anchored numerous RT America specials, including coverage of the 2016 U.S. election and President Trump’s decision to carry out airstrikes against Syria in April 2017.
Director Mikhail Solodovnikov said of Ed’s abilities, work ethic, dedication, and impact on the media landscape:“Ed was more than a colleague, he was a close and true friend. He was a big-time professional and a tough fighter. Between us, I always called him a gladiator. He would never give up; he was always a winner. He was tough on many young journalists in RT America’s newsroom, and a mentor to more than a few. My sincerest condolences go out to his wife, family and all fans who watched his amazing show every night. We lost a legend.”
Margarita Simonyan Chief Editor of RT said:
“We are devastated by the news of the sudden death of our brilliant anchor, one of the best TV-Journalists in America, Ed Schultz. The respect that Ed commanded among viewers and among his colleagues on both sides of the Atlantic is impossible to overstate. He was an unconditional patriot of his country, an honest and principled man. When the campaign against RT America began and the channel was forced to register as a “foreign agent,” Ed set an example for all of us, saying: “Let them call me what they want, I am going to speak the truth no matter what.”
Ed maintained strong relationships with his viewers and co-workers. He was praised for his ability to think creatively, ask the tough questions, and give opponents the benefit of the doubt. To friends and colleagues, he was known as “Big Eddy.” Ed was a powerful motivator who encouraged everyone to meet their potential, yet was kind, caring, and accessible. There were few in the news industry as respected as Ed Schultz. He will be missed.
Ed’s family asks for privacy during this time of grieving.
