Arabic version: توفي الصحفي الاستقصائي الشهير روجر كوك عن عمر يناهز 83 عامًا

Investigative journalist Roger Cook, credited with having invented the doorstep interview technique, has died peacefully at the age of 83 after a short illness, as confirmed by his family. They expressed their sorrow, stating, “He will be deeply missed by all of us, and we ask for privacy as we navigate this difficult loss.” According to BBC News, Cook’s career was marked by a commitment to exposing injustice and criminal activities.

Cook was celebrated for his work on ITV’s The Cook Report, which aired from 1987 to 1999. The network praised his “groundbreaking approach to investigative journalism,” noting that he was one of broadcasting’s most trusted figures. He received a Bafta special award for “25 years of outstanding quality investigative reporting.”

Throughout his career, Cook faced numerous dangers while pursuing stories, including physical assaults that resulted in injuries. His fearless approach led to significant investigations into various issues, including child abuse, organized crime, and international trafficking. At one point, law enforcement officials warned him that a hitman had been hired to kill him due to his work.

Cook’s confrontational style of journalism, which he believed was necessary to hold wrongdoers accountable, resonated with audiences, drawing over 12 million viewers at the peak of his show. He often emphasized the importance of directly confronting those accused of wrongdoing to serve the victims effectively. His contributions to journalism have left a lasting legacy, and he is remembered as a pioneer in the field.