André Laguerre

André Laguerre. A French-born journalist and editor, he is best known for his transformative tenure as the managing editor of Sports Illustrated from 1960 to 1974. Under his leadership, the magazine evolved from a struggling publication into a journalistic powerhouse and a cultural institution. His sophisticated editorial vision, combining literary quality with incisive reporting, fundamentally shaped modern sports journalism.

Early life and education

Born in Paris, Laguerre was raised in a family with strong political and journalistic connections, his father having served as a cabinet minister for Georges Clemenceau. He was educated at the prestigious Lycée Louis-le-Grand and later studied at the University of Paris. His early career in journalism began in the tumultuous political climate of 1930s France, where he worked for the newspaper L'Ordre and reported on the rise of fascism across Europe. Following the outbreak of World War II, he served with distinction in the French Army and, after the Fall of France, joined the French Resistance, eventually making his way to London to work for the Free French forces under Charles de Gaulle.

Career at Time Inc.

After the war, Laguerre's talents were recruited by Henry Luce, the founder of Time Inc., who brought him to New York City in 1945. He initially worked as a correspondent for Time, covering international affairs and bringing a distinctly European perspective to the magazine's reporting on the nascent Cold War. His keen analytical skills led to a promotion to bureau chief in Paris, where he oversaw coverage of the Marshall Plan and the formation of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. In 1951, he was appointed chief of the Time-Life News Service in London, a critical post during events like the Suez Crisis and the early years of the European Economic Community.

Tenure as managing editor of Sports Illustrated

Laguerre was appointed managing editor of the fledgling Sports Illustrated in 1960, a move considered unconventional given his background in political journalism. He immediately instituted a revolutionary approach, insisting that sports were a legitimate subject for serious, stylish writing and photojournalism. He recruited a formidable stable of writers, including Dan Jenkins, Frank Deford, and Robert F. Jones, and photographers like Walter Iooss Jr.. Under his direction, the magazine pioneered in-depth profiles, such as the famous 1962 cover story on Cassius Clay, and ambitious projects like the annual Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue, which debuted in 1964. He championed expansive coverage of diverse sports, from Major League Baseball and the National Football League to The Masters and Wimbledon, while also giving significant space to Olympic sports and outdoor pursuits.

Later career and legacy

After retiring from Sports Illustrated in 1974, Laguerre remained a influential consultant for Time Inc. until his death in 1979. His legacy is profound; he is widely credited with establishing the template for the modern sports magazine, elevating the craft of sports writing to new literary heights. The National Magazine Award-winning work produced during his era set a standard for the industry. Many of the journalists he mentored became defining voices in American letters, and his editorial philosophy continues to influence publications like ESPN The Magazine and the digital platforms of today. He was posthumously honored with the Red Smith Award, and his tenure is often cited as the "Golden Age" of the magazine.

Personal life

A deeply private man, Laguerre was known for his Old World manners, formidable intellect, and a sometimes intimidating presence in the newsroom. He was married to Thérèse "Tita" Laguerre, and the couple had one daughter. An avid fan of horse racing, he frequently attended the Kentucky Derby and Breeders' Cup races. He maintained a lifelong connection to France and was a connoisseur of wine and French cuisine. He passed away in New York City in 1979 after a period of illness.

Category:French journalists Category:Sports Illustrated people Category:1912 births Category:1979 deaths