Peter W. Kaplan was born on October 2, 1954, in New Jersey. He grew up with a passion for journalism, which would ultimately shape his career in the industry. Kaplan’s interest in writing and storytelling began at a young age, and he knew from an early point in his life that he wanted to pursue a career in journalism.
After graduating from high school, Kaplan attended Harvard University, where he studied journalism and media. During his time at Harvard, he had the opportunity to room with one of the sons of Robert F. Kennedy, which further ignited his passion for politics and current events.
Upon graduating from college, Kaplan wasted no time diving headfirst into the world of journalism. He began his career at Esquire, where he honed his skills as a writer and editor. Kaplan quickly made a name for himself in the industry, and soon landed positions at Manhattan, Inc. and The New York Times.
It was during his time at The New York Times that Kaplan’s talent and dedication to journalism truly shone. He was known for his insightful articles and in-depth reporting on a wide range of topics, from politics to pop culture.
In the early 1990s, Kaplan was appointed as Editor-in-Chief of The New York Observer, a position he held for more than a decade. Under his leadership, The Observer became a respected and influential publication, known for its insightful analysis and in-depth reporting.
After his tenure at The Observer, Kaplan took on an executive position within the fashion magazine division of Fairchild Publications. During this time, he continued to make waves in the industry, pushing boundaries and challenging the status quo.
Peter W. Kaplan is perhaps best remembered for his key role in bringing journalism into the digital era. He was a pioneer in embracing new technologies and platforms, understanding the importance of adapting to an ever-changing media landscape.
His forward-thinking approach to journalism paved the way for future generations of journalists, inspiring them to think outside the box and explore new ways of storytelling.
Throughout his career, Kaplan made an indelible mark on the world of journalism. His bold and innovative approach to storytelling continues to inspire journalists and writers around the world.
With his first wife, Audrey Walker, Kaplan had children named Peter, Caroline, and Charlie. His second marriage, to Lisa Chase, produced a son named Davey.
In a 2009 episode of The Charlie Rose Show, Kaplan discussed the effects of the internet and mobile devices upon journalism, showcasing his deep understanding of the evolving media landscape.
Peter W. Kaplan’s legacy lives on through his contributions to journalism and his dedication to the craft of storytelling. He will always be remembered as a true pioneer in the field, pushing boundaries and challenging the status quo.