Jonathan Alter is an acclaimed American journalist, author, and documentary filmmaker. Born on October 6, 1957, in Chicago, Illinois, he has made significant contributions to political journalism and historical writing. Alter was a senior editor and columnist for Newsweek from 1983 to 2011. He is known for his insightful books on American presidents, including “The Defining Moment: FDR’s Hundred Days and the Triumph of Hope” and “His Very Best: Jimmy Carter, a Life”. Additionally, Alter has produced Emmy-winning documentaries and is a frequent political analyst on NBC and MSNBC.
Jonathan Alter Biography
Jonathan Alter is a prominent American journalist, author, documentary filmmaker, and political analyst. Born on October 6, 1957, in Chicago, Illinois, he grew up in a Jewish family. His mother, Joanne Alter, was a notable political figure, being the first woman elected to public office in the Chicago area. His father, James Alter, owned a refrigeration and air-conditioning company. Jonathan’s early education was at Phillips Academy, Andover, and he later graduated from Harvard University in 1979, where he was a key editor for the Harvard Crimson.
Alter’s career in journalism began at Newsweek, where he worked from 1983 to 2011 as a senior editor and columnist. During his tenure, he wrote more than 50 cover stories, including significant interviews with prominent figures such as Bill Clinton and Barack Obama. His insightful and often critical analysis of American politics earned him a reputation as a leading voice in political journalism.
In addition to his work at Newsweek, Alter has written several influential books. His first book, “The Defining Moment: FDR’s Hundred Days and the Triumph of Hope,” published in 2006, was a New York Times Notable Book of the Year. This book examines Franklin D. Roosevelt’s first hundred days in office and how his leadership helped steer the United States through the Great Depression. Alter’s other notable works include “The Promise: President Obama, Year One” (2010), “The Center Holds: Obama and His Enemies” (2013), and “His Very Best: Jimmy Carter, a Life” (2020), which is the first independent biography of Jimmy Carter.
Alter has also made significant contributions to documentary filmmaking. He co-produced and co-directed the HBO documentary “Breslin and Hamill: Deadline Artists,” which won the 2020 Emmy Award for Outstanding Historical Documentary. This film explores the lives and careers of journalists Jimmy Breslin and Pete Hamill. Additionally, Alter served as an executive producer for the Amazon Studios comedy series “Alpha House,” which aired from 2013 to 2014.
Beyond his writing and filmmaking, Alter is a familiar face on television. Since 1996, he has been a contributing correspondent for NBC News, appearing on NBC, MSNBC, and CNBC. He is known for his sharp political commentary and analysis. In 2021, he launched a newsletter called “Old Goats: Ruminating With Friends,” where he engages in conversations with accomplished individuals who share their wisdom and experiences.
Alter’s work has earned him numerous awards and honors. He has received honorary degrees from several universities and has been recognized with journalism awards such as the National Headliner Award and the John Bartlow Martin Award. His contributions to political journalism, historical writing, and documentary filmmaking have made him a respected and influential figure in American media.
Jonathan Alter continues to be an active voice in political discourse, providing insightful analysis and commentary on current events. His work not only informs but also engages and challenges readers and viewers to think critically about the world around them.
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Jonathan Alter Age
Jonathan Alter is a prominent American journalist, author, documentary filmmaker, and political analyst. Born on October 6, 1957, in Chicago, Illinois, he grew up in a Jewish family. His mother, Joanne Alter, was a notable political figure, being the first woman elected to public office in the Chicago area. His father, James Alter, owned a refrigeration and air-conditioning company. Jonathan’s early education was at Phillips Academy, Andover, and he later graduated from Harvard University in 1979, where he was a key editor for the Harvard Crimson.
Alter’s career in journalism began at Newsweek, where he worked from 1983 to 2011 as a senior editor and columnist. During his tenure, he wrote more than 50 cover stories, including significant interviews with prominent figures such as Bill Clinton and Barack Obama. His insightful and often critical analysis of American politics earned him a reputation as a leading voice in political journalism.
In addition to his work at Newsweek, Alter has written several influential books. His first book, “The Defining Moment: FDR’s Hundred Days and the Triumph of Hope,” published in 2006, was a New York Times Notable Book of the Year. This book examines Franklin D. Roosevelt’s first hundred days in office and how his leadership helped steer the United States through the Great Depression. Alter’s other notable works include “The Promise: President Obama, Year One” (2010), “The Center Holds: Obama and His Enemies” (2013), and “His Very Best: Jimmy Carter, a Life” (2020), which is the first independent biography of Jimmy Carter.
Alter has also made significant contributions to documentary filmmaking. He co-produced and co-directed the HBO documentary “Breslin and Hamill: Deadline Artists,” which won the 2020 Emmy Award for Outstanding Historical Documentary. This film explores the lives and careers of journalists Jimmy Breslin and Pete Hamill. Additionally, Alter served as an executive producer for the Amazon Studios comedy series “Alpha House,” which aired from 2013 to 2014.
Beyond his writing and filmmaking, Alter is a familiar face on television. Since 1996, he has been a contributing correspondent for NBC News, appearing on NBC, MSNBC, and CNBC. He is known for his sharp political commentary and analysis. In 2021, he launched a newsletter called “Old Goats: Ruminating With Friends,” where he engages in conversations with accomplished individuals who share their wisdom and experiences.
Alter’s work has earned him numerous awards and honors. He has received honorary degrees from several universities and has been recognized with journalism awards such as the National Headliner Award and the John Bartlow Martin Award. His contributions to political journalism, historical writing, and documentary filmmaking have made him a respected and influential figure in American media.
Jonathan Alter continues to be an active voice in political discourse, providing insightful analysis and commentary on current events. His work not only informs but also engages and challenges readers and viewers to think critically about the world around them.
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Jonathan Alter Net Worth
Jonathan Alter’s net worth is estimated to be around $3 million. This wealth has been accumulated through his successful career in journalism, authorship, and documentary filmmaking. Alter has contributed to various news networks, including NBC, and has appeared on numerous television news shows. His books, such as “The Defining Moment: FDR’s Hundred Days and the Triumph of Hope” and “His Very Best: Jimmy Carter, a Life,” have also been well-received, adding to his financial success.
Jonathan Alter Family
Jonathan Alter comes from a family with a strong background in journalism and public service. He is married to Emily Lazar, a talented television producer known for her work on “The Colbert Report” and “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert”. The couple married on October 18, 1986, and they have three children together.
Their eldest daughter, Charlotte Alter, is a senior national correspondent for Time Magazine. She has made a name for herself in political journalism and has authored the book “The Ones We’ve Been Waiting For: How a New Generation of Leaders Will Transform America”. Their son, Tommy Alter, is a producer for HBO Sports and co-founder of ThreeFourTwo Productions. Their youngest daughter, Molly Alter, works as a principal for Index Ventures and was recognized in Forbes’ “30 Under 30” in venture capital in 2020.
Jonathan’s parents also had notable careers. His mother, Joanne Alter, was the first woman elected to public office in the Chicago area and served as a commissioner of the Metropolitan Sanitary District of Greater Chicago¹. His father, James Alter, owned a refrigeration and air-conditioning company.
The Alter family is known for their contributions to journalism, politics, and public service, continuing a legacy of impactful work across various fields.
Jonathan Alter Wife
Jonathan Alter’s wife, Emily Lazar, is a distinguished television producer known for her work on several high-profile shows. She has been a significant figure in the television industry, particularly for her contributions to “The Colbert Report” and “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert”. Emily and Jonathan married on October 18, 1986, and they have three children together.
Emily Lazar has earned recognition for her talent and dedication in television production. She has won multiple awards, including two Primetime Emmy Awards, and has been nominated for several others. Her career spans various roles, from talent producer to co-executive producer, showcasing her versatility and expertise in the field.
The couple resides in Montclair, New Jersey, where they balance their professional lives with their family commitments. Emily’s contributions to television and her support for Jonathan’s career have made her an integral part of their family’s success.
Jonathan Alter Education
Jonathan Alter has a strong educational background that laid the foundation for his successful career in journalism and writing. He graduated from Phillips Academy in Andover, Massachusetts, in 1975. Phillips Academy, often referred to as Andover, is one of the most prestigious preparatory schools in the United States, known for its rigorous academic programs and notable alumni.
After completing his high school education, Alter attended Harvard University, where he graduated cum laude in 1979 with a Bachelor of Arts degree². During his time at Harvard, he was actively involved with the Harvard Crimson, the university’s daily student newspaper, where he served as one of the lead editors². This experience at the Crimson played a significant role in shaping his journalistic skills and interests.
Alter’s education at these esteemed institutions provided him with a solid academic foundation and valuable experiences that have greatly influenced his career in journalism, authorship, and documentary filmmaking.
Jonathan Alter Achievement
Jonathan Alter has achieved significant recognition and success throughout his career in journalism, authorship, and documentary filmmaking. Here are some of his notable achievements:
- Journalism: Alter worked at Newsweek for nearly three decades, where he served as a senior editor and columnist. He wrote over 50 cover stories and conducted interviews with prominent figures such as Bill Clinton and Barack Obama. His insightful political analysis has made him a respected voice in American journalism.
- Books: Alter has authored several influential books, including:
- “The Defining Moment: FDR’s Hundred Days and the Triumph of Hope” (2006), which was a New York Times Notable Book of the Year.
- “The Promise: President Obama, Year One” (2010), providing an in-depth look at President Obama’s first year in office.
- “The Center Holds: Obama and His Enemies” (2013), examining the political landscape during Obama’s presidency.
- “His Very Best: Jimmy Carter, a Life” (2020), the first independent biography of Jimmy Carter.
- Documentary Filmmaking: Alter co-produced and co-directed the HBO documentary “Breslin and Hamill: Deadline Artists,” which won the 2020 Emmy Award for Outstanding Historical Documentary. He also served as an executive producer for the Amazon Studios comedy series “Alpha House.”
- Television: Since 1996, Alter has been a contributing correspondent for NBC News, appearing on NBC, MSNBC, and CNBC. His sharp political commentary and analysis have made him a familiar face on television.
- Awards and Honors: Alter has received numerous awards for his work, including the National Headliner Award and the John Bartlow Martin Award. He has also been honored with honorary degrees from several universities.
- Newsletter: In 2021, Alter launched a newsletter called “Old Goats: Ruminating With Friends,” where he engages in conversations with accomplished individuals who share their wisdom and experiences.
Jonathan Alter’s achievements reflect his dedication to journalism, his ability to provide deep insights into political and historical events, and his talent in documentary filmmaking. His work continues to inform, engage, and challenge audiences around the world.
