The late Jamil Azar, a Jordanian media icon, was more than just a journalist; he was an institution. His distinguished 60-year career spanned across prominent global and Arab organizations, leaving an indelible mark on the broadcasting landscape.
Azar, who passed away recently at the age of 89, excelled in various roles, including translation, editing, linguistic revision, and hosting radio and television programs. His commanding presence, resonant voice, and dignified delivery made him one of the Arab world’s most recognizable broadcasters, starting his career at the BBC in the latter half of the last century.
His involvement in the founding of Al Jazeera, where he proposed the now-famous ‘Opinion and the Other Opinion’ motto, further solidified his legacy. Azar became a role model for aspiring journalists. His arrival at Al Jazeera brought with it a pre-existing recognition from millions of Arab listeners who knew his voice, amplifying the stardom he had begun cultivating three decades prior, as he revealed in a past interview.
Interestingly, this iconic figure never anticipated such a fulfilling career path. Reflecting on his long years of service, he attributed his success to his extensive knowledge, diverse experiences, and ability to remain detached from conflicts.
Despite his calm and affable nature, Azar possessed a remarkable on-screen gravitas. He attributed this to the serious nature of news broadcasting and the need to approach the material with utmost sincerity. He emphasized the importance of a presenter’s engagement with the content and avoiding anything that might alienate the audience. Azar described credibility as a ‘magnet’ that attracts viewers, built upon a foundation of accuracy.
After his retirement, Azar joined BBC Arabic as a news anchor upon its establishment, driven by his unwavering dedication to staying informed. Following the closure of BBC Arabic television in April 1996, he was invited to contribute to the founding of Al Jazeera. Among his requests was the guarantee of editorial freedom for the channel.
Jamil Azar’s contributions to Arab media are immeasurable. His legacy continues to inspire generations of journalists.
