Michael Silverblatt

Michael Silverblatt, the esteemed American literary critic and broadcaster, passed away on February 14, 2026, in Los Angeles, California, at the age of 73. Renowned for his profound insights and unique interviewing style, Silverblatt dedicated decades to fostering a deeper appreciation for literature through his iconic radio program, "Bookworm." His death marks the end of an era for countless authors and readers who found a singular champion in his erudite and empathetic presence.

Born in Queens, New York City, on August 6, 1952, Silverblatt cultivated a lifelong passion for reading from an early age. He pursued his academic interests at the State University of New York at Buffalo, where he majored in English, and later undertook postgraduate studies at Johns Hopkins University. In the mid-1970s, he relocated to Los Angeles, initially working in motion picture public relations and script development, before a pivotal encounter led him to the world of radio.

In 1989, Silverblatt launched "Bookworm" on KCRW, a nationally syndicated radio program that quickly became a cornerstone of literary discourse. Over its 33-year run, which concluded in 2022, he conducted over 1,600 in-depth conversations with a vast array of celebrated authors, including Salman Rushdie, Joan Didion, Susan Sontag, and David Foster Wallace. His interviews were characterized by meticulous preparation and a rare ability to engage writers on the most intricate aspects of their work, often surprising them with his profound understanding. Joyce Carol Oates famously described him as "the reader writers dream about."

Silverblatt's contributions to the literary world extended beyond his broadcasting. In 2018, he was the inaugural recipient of the Deborah Pease Prize, an award recognizing individuals who have significantly advanced the art of literature. His legacy was further cemented in 2023 with the publication of "Bookworm: Conversations with Michael Silverblatt," a collection of his most notable interviews, offering a lasting testament to his extraordinary talent for literary conversation.

Michael Silverblatt leaves behind an unparalleled archive of literary discussions, a testament to his unwavering commitment to the written word and the minds behind it. His distinctive voice and intellectual generosity will be deeply missed by the literary community and his devoted listeners worldwide.