Jacobo Zabludovsky: The Journalist Who Marked an Era in Mexico

Jacobo Zabludovsky is a name that resonates in the history of journalism in Mexico. He was an influential figure, both admired and criticized, but undoubtedly respected in the field of communication. For decades, he was the face of 24 Horas, the most important news program on Televisa, and his style marked an era in Mexican television. However, beyond his journalistic legacy, his personal life was surrounded by rumors, speculations, and controversies. In this article, we will explore his life, career, key moments in his journey, and the mysteries that surrounded him.

The Beginnings of Jacobo Zabludovsky

Jacobo Zabludovsky Kraveski was born on May 24, 1928, in Mexico City. His family was of Jewish-Polish descent, and his childhood was spent in the bustling and popular La Merced neighborhood in the Mexican capital. From a very young age, he developed a deep interest in reading and culture, influenced by his father, David Zabludovsky, who had been a street book vendor.

His education began at the República del Perú primary school and later at the Escuela Secundaria Número 1. He then enrolled at the Escuela Nacional Preparatoria de San Ildefonso, where his inclination towards the humanities became evident. Since there was no formal journalism program in Mexico at that time, he decided to study Law at the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), although he never practiced the profession.

The Start of a Legendary Journalism Career

Jacobo’s interest in journalism began at an early age. His first encounter was through a neighbor who worked as a proofreader for the newspaper El Nacional. On weekends, Jacobo would accompany him to work and became fascinated by the newspaper printing process and the smell of ink, which he described as “the best perfume in the world.”

At the same time, his passion for radio led him to obtain his broadcasting license on January 3, 1945. It was then that he approached one of his greatest influences, Alonso Sordo Noriega, a renowned announcer of the time. His other great mentorship came from José Pagés Llergo, the founder of the Siempre! magazine, who taught him about print journalism.

In 1950, Jacobo joined XEW, the most important radio station in Mexico at the time. Gradually, he made a name for himself in radio journalism and eventually transitioned to television, a medium that was just beginning to solidify.

The Face of News at Televisa

The turning point in Zabludovsky’s career came in 1970 when he became the host of 24 Horas, the most influential news program on Mexican television. He hosted the show for 27 years, becoming one of the most influential figures in Mexican journalism.

From his position, he covered some of the most significant events of the 20th century, including the Vietnam War, Pope John Paul II’s visit to Mexico, the fall of the Berlin Wall, and the 1968 Olympic Games. One of his most memorable reports was his coverage of the 1985 Mexico City earthquake, where he drove around the streets in his car and broadcast live the devastation caused by the tragedy.

However, his close relationship with the PRI government (Institutional Revolutionary Party) earned him numerous criticisms. Many accused him of being a government-friendly journalist who favored the PRI and did not practice independent journalism. Despite this, his popularity remained unaffected, and until his departure from 24 Horas in 1998, he was considered the most influential journalist in the country.

The Controversial Departure from Televisa

In 2000, Jacobo Zabludovsky left Televisa in an event that marked the end of an era. His son, Abraham, who worked at the company, resigned in protest of internal changes, and Jacobo decided to follow his example. In a meeting with Emilio Azcárraga Jean, he presented his irrevocable resignation, despite the businessman’s insistence that he reconsider his decision.

His departure from Televisa was difficult for him, as after more than 50 years at the company, he found himself without an office, without a routine, and without the world he had built throughout his career. However, far from retiring, Zabludovsky found new opportunities in other spaces, including radio journalism and print media.

Rumors and Speculations About His Personal Life

Throughout his life, Zabludovsky was a private person, but his fame and notoriety made him the subject of numerous rumors. His marriage to Sara Nerubay Liberman was solid, and together they had three children: Abraham, Diana, and Jorge. However, on several occasions, he was linked to show business figures and alleged extramarital relationships.

One of the most shocking rumors emerged in 1995, when actor Gerardo Hemmer, a young television star, was found dead in his apartment under suspicious circumstances. Officially, it was said that his death was caused by a gas leak, but the tabloid press speculated about a possible crime of passion in which Zabludovsky was allegedly involved. None of these theories were proven, and the case was closed without further explanation.

He was also linked to some of the most famous vedettes of Mexican cinema, including Gloriella, Princesa Yamal, and Rossy Mendoza. However, these relationships were never confirmed and remained in the realm of speculation.

The Final Chapter: His Battle with Cancer

In his later years, Zabludovsky faced a tough battle with cancer. He was diagnosed with malignant melanoma and prostate cancer, illnesses that greatly weakened him. Despite this, he continued working until his final days, contributing to radio programs and writing opinion columns.

On July 2, 2015, at the age of 87, he passed away from a stroke. His death marked the end of an era in Mexican journalism, and he was laid to rest with honors at the Israelite Cemetery, in the presence of prominent political and journalistic figures.

The Legacy of Jacobo Zabludovsky

Despite the controversies surrounding his career, there is no denying that Jacobo Zabludovsky left an indelible mark on journalism in Mexico. He witnessed some of the most important events of the 20th century, and his style of reporting influenced generations.

His impact on the media continues to be a subject of debate: some remember him as a great journalist, while others see him as a symbol of government-controlled journalism. Whatever the stance, his influence on Mexican television and journalism is undeniable.

His story reminds us that journalism is not just a reflection of reality, but also a construction influenced by power, politics, and society. Jacobo Zabludovsky lived at the center of that construction and, for better or worse, defined journalism in Mexico.