Should Robert Fife be Celebrated, or Should Reporters Retire Friendless and Despised?

Journalists and politicians are honouring Robert Fife, who retired after 48 years. Known for his big scoops, Fife leveraged anonymous sources to hold the powerful accountable. But Fife’s brand of “access journalism” also runs the risk of being used as a political tool. Jan Wong joins Jesse Brown to explain why journalists shouldn’t get too cozy with the politicians they cover.

Host: Jesse Brown

Credits: James Nicholson (Producer), Kallan Lyons (Associate Producer and Fact Checking), imogen sayers (Mixing and Mastering), Tristan Capacchione (Senior Production Supervisor), Jesse Brown (Editor)

Guest: Jan Wong

Photo: Mark Blevis

Additional music by Audio Network

Further reading:

• Ottawa mayor declares June 11 ‘Robert Fife Day’ to honour veteran journalist - The Globe and Mail
• Robert Fife gives a candid account of some of the biggest stories and issues of his career - The Globe and Mail
• Robert Fife — 2026 Hyman Solomon Award for Excellence in Public Policy Journalism
• Hear No Evil, Write No Lies | The Walrus
• Change is coming to Winkler, ralliers say as southern Manitoba city hosts 1st Pride march | CBC News
• Weston family-backed digital publication Be Giant launches - The Globe and Mail

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