Matt Frei
About
Matt Frei is a seasoned journalist and broadcaster, currently serving as a presenter and Europe Editor for Channel 4 News. He also hosts a show on LBC radio. Renowned for his extensive experience as a foreign correspondent, Matt has reported from over 40 countries for both Channel 4 and the BBC, holding the unique distinction of having been Washington Correspondent for both networks.
Career Highlights:
- Early Career: Matt began his broadcast career with the BBC World Service, initially working for the German section before moving to English language current affairs.
- Reporting Milestones:
- 1989: Reported on the first Intifada in Jerusalem and became the Bonn Correspondent on the day the Berlin Wall fell.
- 1992-1996: Served as BBC Southern Europe Correspondent, covering significant events in Bosnia, Kosovo, and North Africa.
- 1996-2002: Moved to Asia, based in Hong Kong and later Singapore.
- Washington Correspondent:
- 2002-2011: Took up the post of BBC Washington Correspondent, later presenting BBC World News America from 2007 and the weekly Radio 4 program Americana.
- 2011: Joined Channel 4 as Washington Correspondent, creating notable documentaries such as The American Road Trip: Obama’s Story and The Mad World of Donald Trump.
- Europe Editor:
- 2014: Led Channel 4’s coverage of the Ukraine crisis, reporting from critical locations including the MH17 crash site and Kyiv.
- 2022: Continued leading Channel 4’s coverage of the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
- LBC Radio: Since 2016, Matt has hosted a Saturday morning show on LBC radio.
Books:
- Getting the Boot: Italy’s Unfinished Revolution (1995): Examines Italy’s post-war political landscape and Silvio Berlusconi’s rise to power.
- Only in America (2008): Explores the unique characteristics and paradoxes of Washington, D.C.
Awards:
- BAFTA:
- 2024: News coverage of the Gaza conflict (Inside Gaza: Israel and Hamas At War).
- 2023: News coverage of the Ukraine war (Live in Kyiv).
- Charles Wheeler Award: Outstanding contributions to journalism (2022).
- International Emmy:
- 2017: News reports on Inside Aleppo – Battle for Aleppo.
- 2020: Hong Kong: Year of Living Dangerously.
- Voice of the Listener and Viewer Award (2018)
- Royal Television Society: Journalist of the Year (2015 & 2017), International News Award (2010).
- Dupont Award: Haiti Earthquake coverage (2011).
- Peabody Award: BBC World News America (2010).
- Prix Bayeux Calvados Award: War reporting (2000).
- Amnesty International Asia Award: Newsnight features.
Personal Life:
Matt resides in London with his wife, artist Penny Quested, and their four children when he is not on assignment. His personal and professional life reflects a deep commitment to uncovering and presenting the truth through rigorous journalism.
Conclusion:
Matt Frei’s extensive career as a foreign correspondent and journalist highlights his dedication to delivering insightful and impactful news coverage. His work across various global hotspots and his contributions to major news networks have solidified his reputation as a leading figure in international journalism.