James Steele: Movies & Box Office

James B. Steele is an American investigative journalist and author whose career has spanned more than five decades, earning him a reputation as a pioneer of modern investigative reporting. Born on October 7, 1943 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Steele graduated from Temple University with a degree in journalism and quickly entered the newsroom of The Philadelphia Inquirer, where he would later co‑author a series of Pulitzer‑winning investigations. His most celebrated work includes the groundbreaking “The Money Trail” series that exposed corruption in municipal government, earning the Inquirer its first Pulitzer for Public Service in 1976, and the 1991 series on the United States’ Narcotics Conspiracy, which won a second Pulitzer for Public Service. Throughout his career, Steele has been a relentless advocate for transparency, often collaborating with fellow reporters to develop innovative data‑driven techniques that have reshaped the field. In addition to his newspaper work, he has authored several books, most notably “The Secrets of a Secret Service” and “The Uncensored Truth”, which delve into the ethical complexities of investigative journalism and have become required reading in journalism schools across the United States. Steele’s commitment to mentorship is evident through his role in founding the Investigative Reporters & Editors (IRE) organization, where he continues to mentor young journalists. His contributions have been recognized with numerous honors, including the George Polk Award and the Alfred I. duPont‑Columbia University Award. Even in retirement, Steele remains an active voice, writing op‑eds, consulting for documentary projects, and speaking at conferences, thereby ensuring his legacy of accountability and truth‑seeking endures for future generations.