Kenneth Harris (journalist)

Kenneth Harris (1919-1988) was a British journalist, broadcaster, and author. He was best known for his in-depth interviews with prominent figures in British society and beyond, published primarily in The Observer.

Harris began his journalism career after serving in the Royal Air Force during World War II. He initially worked for various newspapers before joining The Observer in 1958. It was there that he established his reputation for conducting insightful and often revealing interviews.

His interview subjects included politicians such as Harold Macmillan and Margaret Thatcher, writers like J.R.R. Tolkien and Evelyn Waugh, actors such as Laurence Olivier, and artists like Henry Moore. These interviews were characterized by their length, careful preparation, and Harris's ability to elicit thoughtful responses from his subjects. He was known for his meticulous research and probing questions, allowing him to delve into the lives, careers, and beliefs of his interviewees.

Harris also wrote several books, including biographies of Attlee and Churchill. He presented television programs, notably Encounter, on the BBC. His work contributed significantly to the understanding of the individuals he interviewed and the historical context in which they lived.