Remembering Mitchell Fink: A Legacy in Entertainment Journalism
Mitchell Fink, a well-known celebrity gossip columnist and entertainment journalist, passed away at the age of 82 in West Palm Beach, Florida. He had a successful career that included writing for publications such as People magazine, the New York Daily News, and the Los Angeles Herald Examiner. Fink also made regular appearances on television entertainment news programs. He authored several books, including "Never Forget: An Oral History of September 11, 2001," which became a New York Times bestseller.
Fink began his career as the editor of Record World, a music magazine, in the 1970s. He later transitioned to the Los Angeles Herald Examiner, where he initially focused on music criticism before moving on to cover hard news. Eventually, he took over the newspaper's popular "Page 2" column, reporting on the activities of celebrities.
After the Los Angeles Herald Examiner ceased publication in 1989, Fink joined People magazine and launched the "Insider" column, which covered similar celebrity news for a national audience. He later worked for the New York Daily News, where his gossip column competed with the Post's Page Six until 2002. Fink also contributed to various television programs, including CNN's "Showbiz Today," "Access Hollywood," and "Good Day New York."
In addition to his bestselling book on the events of 9/11, Fink wrote other books such as "The Last Days of Dead Celebrities," "Change of Heart," and "Frank Sinatra, Miriam and Me." At the time of his passing, he had completed a book on shoe designer Steve Madden titled "Second Chances" and produced the documentary "Maddman: The Steve Madden Story." Fink had a close relationship with Madden and served as the CEO of 1on1 Public Relations, representing Madden's brand in his later years.
Mitchell Fink is survived by his wife, Lois, sons Jesse and Brian, and grandchildren Samson, Alice, and Cameron. His contributions to the entertainment journalism industry and his impactful work will be remembered by many.