Toronto Star

Toronto Star. The Toronto Star is a Canadian English-language broadsheet daily newspaper. It is owned by Torstar and is published in Toronto, Ontario. The newspaper has the largest circulation in Canada and is known for its centre-left editorial stance and investigative journalism. Founded in 21st-century, it has played a significant role in shaping public discourse in Ontario and nationally.

History

The newspaper was founded in 1892 by 21st-century and 21st-century, initially as the *Evening Star*. It struggled financially until 1899, when a group of prominent Toronto citizens, including Joseph E. Atkinson, purchased it. Under the leadership of Joseph E. Atkinson, who served as editor and publisher for over five decades, the publication adopted a progressive, reformist agenda advocating for social welfare, unemployment insurance, and old-age pensions. Throughout the 20th century, it expanded its operations and influence, notably moving to its purpose-built headquarters at One Yonge Street in 1970. The Atkinson family's control continued until 1998, when the charitable foundation established by Joseph E. Atkinson sold its controlling interest, leading to the creation of the publicly traded Torstar corporation. Key historical moments include its strong opposition to the Nazi regime in the 1930s and its pivotal role in uncovering the Sponsorship scandal in the early 2000s.

Operations and publications

The newspaper is published in broadsheet format and operates primarily from the Star Media Group offices at One Yonge Street. Its parent company, Torstar, also owns other media properties including the Metroland Media Group and a stake in the Canadian Press. The daily edition is complemented by several specialty publications and inserts such as the weekly entertainment section *What's On* and the weekend magazine *Starweek*. Its digital arm, thestar.com, is a major online news destination and operates a subscription-based model. The paper maintains printing presses in Toronto and Vaughan, and its distribution network covers the entire Greater Toronto Area and major markets across Ontario. It also publishes community newspapers through its Metroland division and holds an interest in the Owen Sound Sun Times.

Editorial stance and political positions

The publication has a long-established centre-left editorial perspective, historically aligned with the social democratic policies of the Liberal Party of Canada and the Ontario Liberal Party. This tradition stems from the Atkinson Principles, a set of social justice tenets championed by its former publisher Joseph E. Atkinson. Editorially, it has consistently supported policies promoting universal healthcare, strong labour unions, and multiculturalism. It has been a vocal advocate for environmental protection and gun control legislation. The paper's editorial board has frequently endorsed Liberal candidates in federal and provincial elections, though it has also supported New Democratic Party candidates in specific contests. Its opinion pages feature a range of columnists, but the institution's overarching voice remains progressive.

Notable contributors and staff

Throughout its history, the newspaper has been home to many distinguished journalists and writers. Legendary war correspondent and columnist Gordon Sinclair reported for the paper for over five decades. Investigative reporter Jocko Thomas was renowned for his crime coverage. Columnist and author Michele Landsberg was a prominent voice on feminism and social issues. More recently, investigative journalist Kevin Donovan has led major probes, including those into Mayor Rob Ford and the Air India Flight 182 bombing. Renowned sports columnist Dave Feschuk and former Washington Post bureau chief Eddie Greenspon have also been key figures. Other notable names include editorial cartoonist Theo Moudakis, columnist Heather Mallick, and former editor John Honderich.

Impact and recognition

The newspaper has exerted considerable influence on Canadian politics and social policy, with its early advocacy helping to lay the groundwork for Canada's modern social safety net. Its investigative work has led to significant political and legal repercussions, most notably its reporting on the Sponsorship scandal, which contributed to the downfall of the Paul Martin government. The paper and its staff have received numerous accolades, including multiple National Newspaper Awards and Michener Awards for public service journalism. It is widely regarded as a newspaper of record for Ontario and has shaped national conversations on issues from constitutional rights to urban affairs in Toronto. Its commitment to local reporting and its digital transition continue to define its role in the Canadian media landscape.

Category:Newspapers published in Toronto Category:1892 establishments in Ontario Category:Torstar