33 Facts About Leslie Stahl

Early Life and Education

Leslie Stahl's journey began long before she became a household name. Her early experiences shaped her into the journalist she is today.

1. 01Born on December 16, 1941, in Lynn, Massachusetts, Leslie Rene Stahl grew up in a Jewish family.
2. 02Her father, Louis E. Stahl, was a food company executive, while her mother, Dorothy J. Stahl, was a homemaker.
3. 03Leslie attended Wheaton College in Massachusetts, where she graduated with honors in history in 1963.
4. 04During her college years, she developed a passion for journalism, which led her to pursue a career in the field.

Career Beginnings

Leslie's career took off in the 1970s, a time when journalism was undergoing significant changes.

5. 05Leslie started her career as a producer and on-air reporter at Boston's Channel 5, WHDH-TV.
6. 06In 1972, she joined CBS News as a correspondent, marking the beginning of a long and illustrious career with the network.
7. 07She was one of the first female reporters to cover the Watergate scandal, which significantly boosted her career.
8. 08Leslie became a White House correspondent during the presidencies of Jimmy Carter, Ronald Reagan, and George H.W. Bush.

Major Achievements

Leslie Stahl's career is filled with numerous accolades and achievements that highlight her contributions to journalism.

9. 09In 1991, she became a co-editor of the CBS news program "60 Minutes," a position she still holds.
10. 10Leslie has interviewed every U.S. president since Jimmy Carter, showcasing her prominence in political journalism.
11. 11She won an Emmy Award for her coverage of the Gulf War in 1991.
12. 12Leslie received the Edward R. Murrow Award for Overall Excellence in Television in 2014.

Memorable Interviews

Leslie Stahl is known for her hard-hitting interviews, which have often made headlines.

13. 13In 1986, she conducted a memorable interview with Russian leader Mikhail Gorbachev.
14. 14Her 2007 interview with French President Nicolas Sarkozy became famous when he abruptly ended it.
15. 15Leslie's 2016 interview with then-President-elect Donald Trump was one of the most-watched interviews in "60 Minutes" history.
16. 16She interviewed Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg in 2018, discussing the social media giant's role in data privacy issues.

Personal Life

Behind the scenes, Leslie Stahl has a rich personal life that has influenced her professional journey.

17. 17Leslie married author Aaron Latham in 1977, and they have one daughter, Taylor.
18. 18Her daughter Taylor is married to Andrew Major, and they have two children, making Leslie a proud grandmother.
19. 19Leslie is an avid supporter of various charitable organizations, including the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation.
20. 20She has written two books: "Reporting Live" in 1999 and "Becoming Grandma: The Joys and Science of the New Grandparenting" in 2016.

Challenges and Triumphs

Leslie's career has not been without its challenges, but her resilience has always shone through.

21. 21In 2020, Leslie contracted COVID-19 and was hospitalized, but she made a full recovery.
22. 22She has often spoken about the challenges women face in journalism, advocating for greater gender equality in the field.
23. 23Leslie faced criticism for her tough interview style, but she has always defended her approach as necessary for uncovering the truth.
24. 24Despite the challenges, she has remained a respected figure in journalism, known for her integrity and dedication.

Legacy and Impact

Leslie Stahl's impact on journalism is undeniable, and her legacy continues to inspire future generations.

25. 25She has mentored many young journalists, helping them navigate the complexities of the industry.
26. 26Leslie's work has been recognized with numerous awards, including the Paul White Award from the Radio Television Digital News Association.
27. 27She has been inducted into the Television Hall of Fame, cementing her status as a trailblazer in the industry.
28. 28Leslie's interviews and reports have often sparked important national conversations, influencing public opinion and policy.

Fun Facts

Beyond her professional achievements, there are some interesting tidbits about Leslie Stahl that many might not know.

29. 29Leslie is a fan of classical music and often attends concerts in her free time.
30. 30She enjoys cooking and has a collection of recipes from her travels around the world.
31. 31Leslie has a keen interest in art and frequently visits museums and galleries.
32. 32She once appeared as herself in an episode of the TV show "Murphy Brown."
33. 33Leslie is known for her distinctive voice, which has become synonymous with "60 Minutes."

Leslie Stahl's career is a testament to her dedication, resilience, and passion for journalism. Her contributions have left an indelible mark on the industry, inspiring countless others to follow in her footsteps.

Leslie Stahl: A Remarkable Journey

Leslie Stahl's career is nothing short of inspiring. From her early days at CBS to becoming a household name on "60 Minutes," she's shown resilience, intelligence, and dedication. Her interviews with world leaders, coverage of major events, and insightful reporting have left a lasting impact on journalism. Stahl's ability to connect with her audience, ask tough questions, and deliver stories with integrity sets her apart in the media landscape.

Her work has earned numerous awards, including Emmys and a Lifetime Achievement Award. Beyond her professional achievements, Leslie is also a devoted mother and grandmother, balancing her demanding career with family life. Her memoir, "Becoming Grandma," offers a glimpse into her personal life and the joy she finds in her family.

Leslie Stahl's legacy is a testament to her hard work, passion, and unwavering commitment to truth in journalism.