What Happened to Peter Jennings?

Peter Jennings’ diagnosis shocked millions of Americans who had welcomed him into their homes for more than 40 years. His lung cancer became public knowledge in April 2005 when he announced it during what would be his final broadcast. So what happened to Peter Jennings?

The trusted ABC World News anchorman died in his New York apartment on August 7, 2005. He was 67 years old. His death came after a short but intense battle with the disease that ended up becoming the cause of death that devastated viewers across the nation.

The cancer progressed by a lot before anyone knew. When symptoms like shortness of breath, raspy cough, and sudden weight loss appeared, the cancer had already advanced. His lung cancer likely stemmed from his smoking history, matching a sobering fact – 90 percent of male lung cancer patients are or were cigarette smokers. Jennings had built an impressive career as a journalist.

He anchored ABC’s coverage of the September 11 attacks for 17 straight hours – critics called this effort “Herculean”. His quick decline from such a prominent position made his story especially effective for the public. It highlighted smoking’s devastating health risks.

The Final Chapter Begins: Peter Jennings’ Last Broadcast

The broadcast on April 5, 2005, opened a profound chapter in television news history. That evening became a pivotal moment as the veteran anchor revealed his lung cancer diagnosis to millions of viewers in what ended up being his final television appearance.

His On-Air Announcement of Illness

The original plan called for Jennings to deliver the news live as the broadcast began. His deteriorating condition made this impossible. Elizabeth Vargas stepped in to anchor the main newscast, and Jennings’ taped message aired at the program’s end. His voice, usually smooth and authoritative, sounded noticeably strained and hoarse as he spoke to his audience.

“As some of you now know, I have learned in the last couple of days that I have lung cancer,” Jennings stated in the recording. “Yes, I was a smoker until about 20 years ago, and I was weak and I smoked over 9/11”. This candid admission about returning to smoking after the September 11 attacks showed viewers a vulnerable side of the ABC World News anchor they rarely saw.

News of Jennings’ diagnosis had already stunned the ABC newsroom earlier that day when he shared it through a company-wide email. “Forgive me the group mailing but it seems the easiest way to tell a lot of people I care for about a change in my life,” he wrote, adding that the news “was quite a surprise”.

Public Reaction to His Diagnosis

Colleagues, rivals, and viewers responded with an immediate outpouring of support. Former NBC anchor Tom Brokaw expressed being “heartbroken” about his longtime friend’s news, yet stayed hopeful: “He’s also a tough guy. I’m counting on him getting through this very difficult passage”.

The news hit ABC hard with profound shock and grief. ABC News correspondent Dan Harris, stationed in Baghdad at the time, described his colleagues as “stricken,” noting “there’s a lot of affection for him, and even more, a lot of respect”. Supportive messages quickly filled ABC’s website message board.

Jennings showed his steadfast dedication to continue anchoring during treatment. “I will continue to do the broadcast; on good days my voice will not always be like this,” he assured viewers. This promise highlighted his commitment to journalism even as he faced the advancing lung cancer that would cause his death.

Why This Moment Shocked the Nation

Jennings’ announcement appealed deeply to people in part because it came during unprecedented changes in network news. Tom Brokaw had retired, Dan Rather had resigned after controversy, and Ted Koppel had announced his departure from Nightline – all within 12 months. Jennings remained the last pillar of network news’ golden age anchors.

This brave on-air announcement transformed a personal health crisis into a public health moment. His honesty about smoking helped reshape attitudes about tobacco use. Calls to smoking cessation hotlines doubled in the days after his announcement.

The news of Jennings’ lung cancer shocked many because he seemed invincible, especially after his coverage of the September 11 attacks. ABC News president David Westin remembered how Jennings anchored continuous coverage for nearly four days with minimal sleep, bringing “his calm and steady hand” to a national tragedy.

That April evening marked more than a career interruption for a beloved anchor who once smoked – it signaled the end of an era in American broadcasting.

Understanding Peter Jennings’ Lung Cancer Diagnosis

Peter Jennings’ lung cancer diagnosis came as a shock to many people, especially since he had quit smoking about 20 years earlier. All the same, this devastating disease claimed the life of one of America’s most trusted news anchors just four months after his public announcement.

Peter Jennings Cause of Death: What We Know

Lung cancer took Peter Jennings’ life. This disease remains the leading cause of cancer-related death in both men and women. He had quit smoking decades earlier but admitted to picking up the habit again briefly after the September 11 attacks.

Statistics show smoking causes 87 percent of lung cancer cases, making it the biggest risk factor by far. Medical experts questioned the treatment path chosen for Jennings – chemotherapy without surgery first – since patients with non-small-cell cancer usually start with surgery.

How did Peter Jennings Die: Timeline of Events

Peter Jennings’ condition deteriorated faster after his April 5, 2005 announcement:

1. April 5: Announced his diagnosis on ABC World News and began preparation for treatment
2. April 29: Posted a letter on ABCNews.com updating his status and thanking supporters
3. June: Visited ABC News headquarters but could barely speak
4. July 29: Posted another brief note of thanks on his 67th birthday
5. August 7: Died in his New York apartment with family at his side

Yes, it is true that his chemotherapy treatments started the week after his announcement, but the disease spread quick to other parts. Doctors explain that lung cancer often doesn’t show symptoms until it has advanced by a lot.

Symptoms He Experienced before Diagnosis

Peter Jennings showed several warning signs before his official diagnosis. ABC explained his absence from tsunami coverage in December 2004 as an “upper respiratory infection”. Viewers started noticing his unusual gravelly voice in late March 2005.

His hoarseness and weight loss pointed to an advanced state of the disease. These symptoms match what doctors consider common lung cancer indicators – increased coughing, chest pain, and shortness of breath.

Why His Case Raised Awareness about Lung Cancer

Peter Jennings’ story increased public awareness about smoking-related health risks dramatically. Calls to smoking cessation hotlines doubled after his announcement. His case highlighted some sobering facts: about 160,000 Americans die from lung cancer yearly, and 60 percent of patients die within one year of diagnosis. Lung cancer patients’ overall five-year survival rate stays at just 15 percent, much lower than other common cancers.

Lung cancer research gets nowhere near the funding of other cancers – less than 1/10th of breast cancer’s research dollars per death. Peter Jennings’ story showed that former smokers stay at risk, as about half of lung cancer patients are ex-smokers rather than current smokers.

Behind the Scenes: Life During Treatment

Peter Jennings fought a private battle in the public eye after his diagnosis. The veteran journalist faced his illness with remarkable determination between April and August 2005, just as he had shown throughout his decorated career.

His Decision to Continue Working

Peter Jennings made a bold choice to keep anchoring ABC World News “to the extent he can do so comfortably”. He sent an email to his colleagues that acknowledged the road ahead: “There will be good days and bad, which means some days I may be cranky and some days really cranky!”.

His steadfast dedication to journalism showed through his belief that “a journalist who doesn’t value deeply the audience’s loyalty should be in another line of work”. This commitment reflected his lifelong approach to journalism – one of unwavering professionalism.

Chemotherapy and Its Toll

The week after his announcement, Jennings started outpatient chemotherapy treatment in New York. Medical experts expressed concern about this treatment approach since lung cancer patients usually undergo surgery first if possible. Patients with his condition faced a cure rate between 20-30%. His physical changes became more noticeable as treatment continued – his voice grew hoarser and his strength faded.

Support from Colleagues and Family

ABC responded with immediate and heartfelt support. David Westin, then-president of ABC News, assured staff that “Peter will once again lead the way, but we will stand with him at every turn”. Charles Gibson and Elizabeth Vargas stepped in as substitute anchors when needed.

Tom Brokaw, though a longtime competitor, shared that he felt “heartbroken” yet remained hopeful about his friend’s recovery. This support network proved vital as Jennings’ lung cancer progressed. Find out the truth about family rumors of Peter being related to Scott Jennings.

Moments of Strength and Vulnerability

A touching moment came in June 2005 when Jennings visited ABC headquarters. He addressed staff members in an emotional gathering despite his weakened condition. His colleagues noticed he could barely speak at this point. All the same, he expressed gratitude to Gibson for closing each broadcast with “for Peter Jennings and all of us at ABC News”.

The summer months revealed his declining health. He posted a brief thank-you note to supporters on July 29, his 67th birthday. A week later, he passed away in his New York apartment surrounded by his fourth wife, two children, and sister. His fight against smoking-related lung cancer lasted just four months.

The Legacy He Left Behind

Peter Jennings left a mark on American journalism that reaches way beyond his final days. His legacy shapes broadcasting standards and continues to inspire journalists around the world.

Impact on Journalism and ABC News

Peter Jennings helped reshape ABC News during his distinguished career. He took “World News Tonight” to the top of the ratings for 11 out of 20 years. ABC News President David Westin said it best: “Peter was a true anchor in every sense of the word,” and added that “an anchor keeps the ship steady”.

He showed his dedication to international news coverage by opening the first American news bureau in an Arab country. His smooth delivery and worldly approach changed how networks presented news to their viewers.

Tributes from Peers and the Public

Colleagues and world leaders paid tribute after Jennings succumbed to lung cancer. Tom Brokaw described their relationship as a “competitive brotherhood”. President Bush noted that “a lot of Americans relied upon Peter Jennings for their news”.

His human side showed when homeless people from the park across his Manhattan apartment told his widow how he would stop and chat with them regularly. He showed this same compassion when he helped distribute meals to the homeless – something his ABC World News viewers rarely saw.

His Support for the First Amendment

The former smoker turned activist had a deep respect for constitutional principles that few knew about. He always kept a copy of the U.S. Constitution in his back pocket. His program “We the People” got into the First Amendment, where he noted that “it is only through the endless testing of debate that error can be exposed and truth emerge”. These principles partly motivated him to become a U.S. citizen in 2003.

Posthumous Honors and Memorials

Memorial tributes showed just how much influence Jennings had. The Academy of Television Arts and Sciences recognized his broadcasting excellence by inducting him into their Hall of Fame. The Peter Jennings Project at the National Constitution Center was created to help journalists explore constitutional aspects of news. He won 16 Emmys among many other awards. Maybe his greatest legacy lives on in a simple question his colleagues still ask: “What would Peter do?”.

Jennings’ death from lung cancer ended up sparking reflection on a remarkable life dedicated to truth and journalistic excellence.

What We Can Learn from Peter Jennings’ Final Months

Peter Jennings’ story goes beyond personal tragedy and teaches us valuable lessons about health awareness and prevention. His daughter Elizabeth helped raise national awareness during Lung Cancer Awareness Month, five years after his death.

The Importance of Early Detection

Peter Jennings’ grim timeline shows why catching cancer early matters so much. Lung cancer shows no symptoms until it reaches advanced stages. About 60% of patients die within a year of diagnosis. Patients with small, localized tumors have better chances – nearly 50% survive for five years. Doctors had limited screening options when they found Jennings’ lung cancer. Today’s low-dose CT scans can spot cancer much earlier.

Raising Awareness about Smoking and Lung Cancer

Jennings’ smoking habit points to a serious health concern. Smoking causes 90% of lung cancer cases. Tobacco remains “the single largest preventable cause of disease and premature death”. Jennings quit for years but started smoking again after 9/11. His story shows nicotine’s powerful grip on smokers.

How His Story Changed Public Perception

The public’s response to Jennings’ illness created a health movement. Quit-line calls doubled after his announcement. Thomas Glynn from the American Cancer Society called his disclosure a “watershed event in public health”. Cigarette sales dropped to their lowest level since 1951 that year.

Calls for More Lung Cancer Research Funding

Jennings’ death revealed huge gaps in cancer research funding. Lung cancer kills more Americans than breast, colon, and prostate cancers combined. Yet it gets nowhere near the research money – less than 1/10th per death compared to breast cancer. His death raised questions about better treatments that more research could bring. ABC World News and other networks still discuss this funding gap today.

What Happened to Peter Jennings Frequently Asked Question

What was Peter Jennings’ Final Broadcast like?

Peter Jennings’ final broadcast was on April 5, 2005, where he announced his lung cancer diagnosis in a taped message. His voice was noticeably strained as he shared the news with viewers, expressing his determination to continue anchoring when possible during treatment.

How Long did Peter Jennings Battle Lung Cancer?

Peter Jennings’ battle with lung cancer was brief but intense, lasting only four months. He announced his diagnosis in April 2005 and passed away on August 7, 2005, at the age of 67 in his New York apartment.

What Impact did Peter Jennings’ Illness have on Public Health Awareness?

Jennings’ diagnosis and openness about his smoking history significantly increased public awareness about lung cancer and smoking risks. Following his announcement, calls to smoking cessation hotlines doubled, and cigarette sales that year dropped to their lowest level since 1951.

How did Peter Jennings Continue Working during His Treatment?

Despite undergoing chemotherapy, Jennings attempted to continue anchoring when possible. He made occasional appearances at ABC News headquarters, though his condition deteriorated rapidly. Colleagues Charles Gibson and Elizabeth Vargas stepped in as substitute anchors when necessary.

What is Peter Jennings’ Lasting Legacy in Journalism?

Peter Jennings left a profound impact on American journalism, transforming ABC News and setting high standards for international reporting. His commitment to the First Amendment, advocacy for constitutional principles, and compassionate approach to news coverage continue to influence modern broadcast journalism.

When did Peter Jennings Start his Career in Journalism?

Peter Jennings began his journalism career in Canada at the age of nine, hosting a children’s radio show. He later moved into television and joined ABC News in the 1960s, eventually becoming one of America’s most trusted anchors.

How did Peter Jennings Influence ABC World News Tonight?

As anchor of ABC World News Tonight for over two decades, Jennings expanded the program’s global coverage, introduced in-depth reporting segments, and helped establish ABC as a leader in broadcast journalism.

Did Peter Jennings Receive Any Awards for His Work?

Yes, Jennings earned numerous accolades, including 16 Emmy Awards and two George Foster Peabody Awards, recognizing his excellence in international reporting and broadcast journalism.

How was Peter Jennings Remembered by His Colleagues?

Colleagues remembered Jennings as a dedicated journalist with immense curiosity and compassion. He was admired for mentoring younger reporters and for his relentless pursuit of accuracy in storytelling.

What Role did Peter Jennings Play in Covering Major World Events?

Jennings played a key role in covering significant global events, including the fall of the Berlin Wall, the Gulf War, and the September 11 attacks. His calm, steady presence during crises made him a trusted voice for millions of viewers.