Giovana Gelhoren
Updated on: October 9, 2024 4:38 am GMT
Tributes Pour In for David Knowles, Telegraph Journalist and Podcast Host, Who Died at 32
David Knowles, a prominent journalist and host of the acclaimed podcast “Ukraine: The Latest,” has tragically passed away at the age of 32. His death occurred while he was in Gibraltar on Sunday and is believed to be due to a cardiac arrest. Knowles’s contributions to journalism, especially in the context of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, were significant, earning him recognition and respect from colleagues and listeners alike.
A Passionate Journalist Committed to Storytelling
Knowles joined The Telegraph in 2020, initially serving as the deputy head of social media before being promoted to head of social media. His talents extended to audio journalism, where he made a considerable impact by launching “Ukraine: The Latest” shortly after the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Under his leadership, the podcast soon transformed from a Twitter Space into a fully-fledged daily podcast that has amassed nearly 100 million downloads.
His father, Peter Knowles, described him as someone who “loved life and he lived it just as well as he could.” Knowles was deeply committed to journalism, feeling most fulfilled when he could directly engage with stories that mattered. He made multiple trips to Ukraine, capturing the narratives of ordinary people affected by the war.
Recognized for Excellence in Journalism
“Ukraine: The Latest” garnered significant acclaim during Knowles’s tenure. It was awarded Best News Podcast at the Publisher Podcast Awards this year and was shortlisted for the Innovation of the Year award at the British Journalism Awards in 2022. Knowles, known as the “voice” of the podcast, not only anchored the episodes but also traveled through Ukraine with his audio equipment, providing listeners with unique insights into the struggles faced by citizens amid the conflict.
Chris Evans, editor of The Telegraph, stated, “David was a talented and popular journalist who was perhaps best known for helping to make our Ukraine podcast such a success.” This sentiment was echoed throughout the journalism community, as his colleagues spoke of his impactful work and infectious enthusiasm.
Community and Colleagues Remember Knowles
Tributes to Knowles quickly filled social media platforms and communications within the industry. Colleagues described him as a gifted reporter with boundless enthusiasm. James Rothwell, a Berlin correspondent for The Telegraph, shared that Knowles was “such a talented colleague,” noting his superb reporting from Ukraine.
Georgia Coan, an audio journalist at The Telegraph, expressed her devastation at losing Knowles, highlighting his kindness and sense of humor. Other journalists, including Christopher Miller and Matt Field, shared similar sentiments about Knowles’s kindness and dedication to his work.
Kamal Ahmed, the director of audio at The Telegraph, praised Knowles as “the most talented of journalists,” emphasizing that his podcast is a lasting legacy that will continue to bless audiences with its powerful storytelling.
The Legacy of ‘Ukraine: The Latest’
David Knowles’s untimely death leaves a significant void in the field ofjournalism, particularly in the coverage of the Ukraine conflict. His commitment to delivering quality news and amplifying important stories has resonated with many, fostering a community of engaged listeners and dedicated colleagues.
As the podcast goes on, the people who knew Knowles and learned from his work will probably share their favorite stories about him. They will remember his love for journalism and the important values he stood for.
