The family of veteran CNN investigative journalist Drew Griffin has announced his passing after a battle with cancer. He was aged 60.
A revered investigative reporter known for impactful work on an array of topics, Griffin passed away Saturday, his family said.
CNN CEO Chris Licht paid tribute to Griffin’s life and career in a memo to staffers Monday.
“Drew’s death is a devastating loss to CNN and our entire profession,” Licht said in a note to staff. “A highly acclaimed investigative journalist, Drew’s work had incredible impact and embodied the mission of this organization in every way.”
“His work ethic was unparalleled,” Licht added. “He spent long hours poring over documents and working the phones. Even as he battled cancer, he refused to give up on the reporting that was so important to him and was even working on an investigation until the day he passed away.”
Licht added: “He cared about seeking the truth and holding the powerful to account. He was hard-hitting, but always fair.”
Michael Bass, CNN’s Executive Vice President of Programming, also shared his admiration for Griffin in a note to the investigative team Sunday.
“Fearless and artful at the same time, he knew how to push a story forward to its limits, but also tell it in a way that would make everyone understand,” Bass said.
“How many times has he chased an unwilling interviewee? How many times has he spoken truth to power? How many times has he made a difference on something important … It was an honor to be his colleague and to be witness to his work and the ways it changed the world.”
