Paul Conroy

Paul Conroy, a distinguished British photojournalist and filmmaker renowned for his courageous reporting from the world's most perilous conflict zones, passed away on February 28, 2026, at the age of 61, following a heart attack. His death was confirmed by colleagues and sent a wave of grief through the international journalism community, where he was deeply respected for his integrity and unwavering commitment to bearing witness.

Born in Liverpool, England, on July 18, 1964, Conroy's early life included a period of service in the Royal Artillery from 1980 to 1987. This foundational experience likely shaped his resilience and resolve, qualities that would define his later career as he transitioned into photojournalism.

Conroy dedicated his professional life to documenting the human cost of war, covering conflicts across the Balkans, the Middle East, and Libya. His work was characterized by a profound empathy for those caught in the crossfire and an unyielding pursuit of truth, often placing him in extreme danger.

He gained significant international attention for his close collaboration with the legendary American war correspondent Marie Colvin. In 2012, while reporting from the besieged Syrian city of Homs, Conroy was severely wounded during an artillery strike that tragically killed Colvin and French photojournalist Rémi Ochlik.

Despite his injuries and the profound trauma of that event, Conroy was heroically smuggled out of Homs to Lebanon, an arduous journey that underscored the immense risks he and his colleagues faced. His survival and subsequent recovery allowed him to continue his vital work.

In 2013, Conroy published "Under The Wire," a powerful and factual account of his harrowing experiences in Homs, offering a firsthand perspective on the brutal realities of modern warfare. The book was later adapted into a feature documentary of the same title, and his story with Marie Colvin was also dramatized in the 2018 Hollywood film "A Private War."

In recent years, Conroy continued to report from global hotspots, demonstrating his enduring dedication to journalism. From 2023 to 2024, he lived in Kherson, Ukraine, where he was actively involved in filming a movie, once again placing himself on the front lines to capture the human impact of the ongoing conflict.

Paul Conroy's legacy is one of extraordinary bravery, journalistic excellence, and a deep humanitarian spirit. His powerful images and compelling narratives brought distant conflicts into sharp focus, ensuring that the stories of those affected by war were heard. He will be remembered as a fearless soul who met his last moments with courage and dignity, leaving behind a body of work that stands as an enduring testament to truth and sacrifice.