John Simpson Reflects on Early Career and Life’s Journey

John Simpson, the renowned broadcaster and journalist, has shared insights into his life and career, reflecting on his early days in the property market. Simpson, who joined the BBC in 1966, recalled purchasing his first home for £10,500, admitting in retrospect that he might have overpaid for it. This candid admission comes as the veteran reporter continues to navigate a remarkable journey that has taken him across the globe.

Throughout his five-decade career, Simpson has reported from more than a hundred countries, covering major events and conflicts, including the wars in Baghdad, Kabul, and Libya, as well as the tragic events of the Tiananmen Square massacre. His experiences in these war zones have not only shaped his career but have also had a lasting impact on his personal life. In a harrowing incident in northern Iraq, he was left deaf in one ear after coming under friendly fire, an attack that tragically claimed the life of a crew member.

At 80 years old, Simpson remains active as the BBC‘s world affairs editor. He continues to present the program Unspun World with John Simpson on BBC2, where he provides in-depth analysis of global events. His contributions to journalism have been recognized with an Emmy Award and three Bafta Awards. Additionally, he was appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) as part of the Gulf War honours list for his exceptional reporting during that time.

Simpson’s personal life is equally rich. He has two daughters from his first marriage and currently resides in Oxford with his South African wife, Dee, their son, Rafe, and their Irish terrier, Cody. His family life has provided a foundation of support as he continues to engage with pressing global issues.

As he reflects on his past, Simpson’s journey from purchasing a modest home to becoming a prominent figure in journalism illustrates not only his professional growth but also the changing landscape of the media and world affairs over the decades. With a career spanning more than half a century, his insights serve as a testament to the resilience and adaptability required in both life and journalism.