Ed Gordon
Hard hitting, inspiring, intelligent, honest, and direct. These are some of the words used to describe the style and approach of Emmy award winning broadcaster Ed Gordon. Known for his stellar interaction with newsmakers from the worlds of politics, entertainment, and sports his name is synonymous with the “big” interview. Gordon is one of television’s most respected journalists. Now, once again, Gordon leads up the news division of BET. He hosts a weekly talk show and anchors news specials for the network. These assignments allow Gordon to display all aspects of his interviewing expertise. This latest assignment just adds to the list of impressive positions Gordon has held over the years, including contributing correspondent for the CBS newsmagazine 60 Minutes II and contributor for NBC’s Today Show and Dateline. Gordon also hosted the syndicated talk/news program Our World with Black Enterprise. His diverse style also makes him one of the most versatile people in broadcasting. He also hosted News and Notes with Ed Gordon, which aired on National Public Radio.
Prior to returning to BET in 2010 Gordon distinguished himself during two prior stints at the network. He had many roles at the network including host of BET Tonight, anchor of BET News, and creator of his signature one-on-one series Conversation with Ed Gordon. Over the years, Gordon has covered many of the world’s most defining events. From the historic 2008 United States Presidential election to the freedom of South Africa’s Nelson Mandela to upheaval in Haiti and Cuba he provided comprehensive coverage. Gordon also provided up-to-the-minute reports on many other domestic and international affairs, including the tragic September 11th attack on America.
Some of Mr. Gordon’s other notable works that have garnered the admiration and respect of viewers and colleagues include:
- The infamous O.J. Simpson interview
- An exclusive interview with pop superstar Janet Jackson about her secret marriage and painful divorce
- No holds barred, headline making interviews with controversial Senator Trent Lott and embattled singer R. Kelly
Gordon’s impressive portfolio also includes conversations with newsmakers the likes of President Barack Obama, television mogul Oprah Winfrey, President Bill Clinton, Academy Award winners Jamie Foxx and Halle Berry, as well as The King of Pop, (the late) Michael Jackson.
His 3-year period at NBC was just as impressive, as he served as an anchor on MSNBC and a contributor to the Today Show and Dateline NBC. Gordon started his broadcasting career in the early 1980’s at the PBS affiliate in Detroit.
Gordon has also created “Daddy’s Promise” an initiative that encourages fathers to become deeply involved in the lives of their daughters. The project was born after he wrote a story for Essence magazine (December 2006) describing the close relationship he shares with his daughter, Taylor. The article was so popular it moved the journalist to create this national movement.
In addition to an Emmy, Gordon is the recipient of many other awards recognizing his talent and professionalism. He has also been featured in many national newspapers and periodicals. Gordon is an alumnus of a special list; PEOPLE magazine named him one of its 50 most beautiful people.
Gordon is also president of Ed Gordon Media, a multi-service production company. The Detroit-born Gordon earned his bachelor’s degree in Communications and Political Science from Western Michigan University.
