Barbara Frum

Production

1937-09-08 · Niagara Falls, New York, USA

Barbara Frum, a revered American-born Canadian journalist, embarked on her career after graduating from the University of Toronto. She contributed as a writer and commentator for CBC radio and various prominent publications like the Globe and Mail, The Toronto Star, and Saturday Night magazine. Her journey included co-hosting Toronto's CBC evening news and then co-hosting CBC's "As It Happens," pioneering live connections to global events via telephone. For a decade, she interviewed world leaders and delved into national and international news, earning respect as a distinguished journalist. Frum received numerous accolades, including the National Press Club of Canada Award and the Order of Canada. In 1982, she made history as the first female lead host of CBC Television's groundbreaking show "The Journal," propelling it to become Canada's most-watched newsmagazine program. Frum's tenure with "The Journal" lasted until her passing in 1992 at 54 due to complications from chronic leukemia. Beyond journalism, she was an art collector and gardener, with a notable African art collection displayed at the Art Gallery of Ontario. Married to Murray Frum, she had three children.