Seymour Hersh: Uncovering The Truth

Seymour Hersh, the Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative journalist, is known for uncovering the truth, but now he’s the one being scrutinized. In the Netflix documentary “Cover-Up,” released on December 26, Hersh sits down for an intimate interview, sharing his remarkable journey. Growing up, Hersh’s talent for writing was recognized by an English teacher at a two-year college, who encouraged him to apply to the prestigious University of Chicago. It was there that he discovered his passion for journalism while working at the now-defunct City News. As a police reporter, Hersh was thrust into the midst of Chicago’s mob scene and corrupt police force, an experience he credits with teaching him about the art of exposing cover-ups. In the documentary, Hersh’s emotions run high as he recounts his meticulous approach to protecting his sources.

Co-director Laura Poitras notes that Hersh’s nervousness was palpable, underscoring the gravity of the source-journalist relationship. The importance of corroborating evidence is also highlighted in the film, as Hersh shares photographs that were instrumental in breaking a story. “If there hadn’t been photographs, no story,” he says, emphasizing the crucial role that visual proof plays in investigative journalism.