Citizen Hearst

Citizen Hearst is a gripping, thoroughly-researched documentary produced by the Biography Channel in 2012. The acclaimed documentary series delves into the life and legacy of one of the most influential figures in the history of American media, William Randolph Hearst.

Over its running time, the documentary goes beyond the headlines to paint an intricate and enthralling portrait of Hearst, making it a compelling watch for those interested in history, media, or the art of storytelling itself. Even without prior knowledge of Hearst's life, viewers will find themselves captivated by the intricate web of intrigue, power, and influence woven around this media titan.

Citizen Hearst follows Hearst's journey from his early career in publishing, his rise to power, and the eventual creation of a media empire that would leave an indelible mark on American society. The series enlightens its audience about Hearst's early interest in journalism, which was sparked during his student days at Harvard, where he was exposed to the power of the press.

As the creator of the country's largest newspaper chain and a major figure in New York City, Hearst was famous for his outsize influence on public opinion. His establishment of 'yellow journalism' changed the course of media history, introducing sensationalist tactics that would captivate readers and dramatically boost circulation. This influence represents a turning point in American media, a theme that Citizen Hearst explores in great detail.

Through meticulous research and insight, the series gives an inside look into the Hearst empire, examining Hearst's use of his newspapers to influence politics, shape public opinion, and promote his personal agenda. His high-stakes gambles in the publishing world were paralleled by a similarly extravagant personal life – owning several grand palaces and maintaining an extravagant lifestyle that rivaled those of kings.

Although the narrative structure of Citizen Hearst is chronological, it delves deeper into Hearst's life, featuring reenactments, archived footage, expert commentary, and personal anecdotes from those who personally knew him. It represents Hearst not only as a media mogul but also as a complicated man, whose ambitions and desires were every bit as remarkable as the empire he built.

One of the striking aspects of Citizen Hearst is its presentation of Hearst’s impact on the media industry, analyzed through his sensationalist journalism, his involvement in politics, and his fostering of celebrity culture. The documentary helps viewers understand how Hearst's influence extends beyond his life, continuing to shape modern journalism, broadcasting, and even the way political campaigns are run.

While it pays attention to his successes, Citizen Hearst does not shy away from Hearst's adversities and controversies, from his role in inciting the Spanish-American War through his scandal-ridden tabloids, to his battles with financial crisis during the Great Depression. It addresses his complicated relationships, including his long-time affair with actress Marion Davies, and the clash with Orson Welles over Citizen Kane, a movie partially based on Hearst's life.

Where Citizen Hearst truly stands out is in its objectivity, avoiding hype or excess in its portrayal of Hearst’s life. It invites the viewers to contemplate Hearst's legacy and the media empire that continues to this day, offering a carefully balanced exploration of the pros and cons of his influence.

The production values of Citizen Hearst are top-notch, treating viewers to a well-paced, coherent, and beautifully shot documentary series. With a captivating narrative and engaging storytelling, Citizen Hearst provides a fascinating glimpse into the life of one of the most prominent figures in the history of American media.

Now over a century after William Randolph Hearst first entered the publishing business, his legacy continues to reverberate. Citizen Hearst from Biography Channel is not just a biography of a media tycoon, but a biography of the American media itself. It's an exploration of the evolution, successes, and challenges of journalism in America, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in the media's role in shaping society.

In Citizen Hearst, the Biography Channel takes the challenge of presenting the complex, controversial life of a media giant and succeeds in creating an engaging, elucidative, and informative series. Whether you're a student of history, a media enthusiast, or a casual viewer interested in an absorbing story, Citizen Hearst provides a fascinating journey into a remarkable life and an examination of the vast empire that life created.