After covering the Jussie Smollett case for nearly two years for The New York Times, I had to turn down reporting from the actor’s trial in Chicago recently on charges that he faked a racist, homophobic attack in 2019. I had another assignment that week so couldn’t commit to being in court every day of the trial, which The New York Times wanted when they asked me to cover … [Read more...] about Freelancing during the pandemic: Journalists chase assignments, security as more of them exit the industry
Trial
What to write while the Blagovevich jury decides
Still no word on the Blagojevich trial. Former Illinois governor Rod Blagojevich still sits in limbo as the jury decides his fate on corruption charges and the media still has stories to write about the case. It may have quieted somewhat, but those on the beat must find something to write about every day. Some papers, like the suburban Daily Herald have taken to finding … [Read more...] about What to write while the Blagovevich jury decides
Sypher trial gives media more buzz for its buck; Blago fizzles
As the summer started it was hard for me not to look just a little bit forward to the Rod Blagojevich trial. It promised so much, a state governor on a corruption trial, the promise of airing dirty political laundry and even the possibility of the political stench reaching the hall of the White House. But the trial fizzled. There was no long defense and no political intrigue … [Read more...] about Sypher trial gives media more buzz for its buck; Blago fizzles