The British media landscape is mourning the loss of one of its most influential figures, Andreas Whittam Smith, who has died at the age of 88.
A family spokesperson confirmed he passed away on 29 November 2025, surrounded by his loved ones.
A Pioneering Career in Journalism
Whittam Smith's remarkable career began in financial journalism, with positions at the Stock Exchange Gazette, the Financial Times, and the Times.
He later held senior roles at several prominent publications including the Daily Telegraph, the Guardian, the Investors Chronicle and the Stock Exchange Gazette.
His most significant achievement came in 1986, when he joined forces with fellow Daily Telegraph journalists Stephen Glover and Matthew Symonds to launch The Independent newspaper.
Whittam Smith served as the publication's first editor until 1994, establishing its reputation for independent journalism free from political bias.
Beyond Journalism: Film and Faith
In 1998, Whittam Smith embarked on a new chapter as president of the British Board of Film Classification (BBFC).
During his tenure, he oversaw several landmark decisions, including allowing controversial films like A Clockwork Orange and The Exorcist to be released on home video.
He notably suggested that film classifications might eventually disappear altogether, showing his forward-thinking approach to media regulation.
His dedication to public service extended to the Church of England, where he served as First Church Estates Commissioner from 2002 to 2017, the senior lay member of the church.
Recognition and Legacy
Whittam Smith's contributions were formally recognised with several honours. He was knighted in 2015 for his public service, particularly to the Church of England.
In 2023, he was made a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) for services to the film industry.
The then Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, awarded him the Canterbury Cross in July 2017 for his services to the Church of England.
Born in Cheshire in June 1937, Whittam Smith was educated at Birkenhead School before studying philosophy, politics and economics at Keble College, Oxford.
After completing national service and a stint at a stockbroking firm, he found his true calling in journalism.
Tributes have poured in from across the media industry. Amol Rajan, BBC journalist and another former editor of The Independent, described Whittam Smith as a "radical" and "pioneer" who "profoundly transformed British journalism for the better, and forever".
Geordie Greig, The Independent's editor-in-chief, said staff past and present were "deeply saddened" by the news, praising his "zeal for journalism" that "caught the imagination of the whole nation".
Whittam Smith is survived by his wife, Valerie; two sons, Benedict and Mark; and three grandsons.
