Jack Gould

Who was Jack Gould?

Jack Gould was an American journalist and critic, who wrote influential commentary about television.

Born in New York City, Gould became the chief television reporter and critic for The New York Times in 1948 after several years covering theater and radio for that paper. His columns and reviews were widely read by decision makers in the fledgling medium of television, and Gould had many professional and personal relationships/acquaintances with prominent industry figures such as Edward R. Murrow and Fred Friendly.

Gould did not hold back harsh criticism, even when The New York Times itself produced its own public affairs program in 1963. Gould was heavily critical, yet optimistic, on the potential power of the television medium as a force for social good.

Gould retired from the Times in 1972.