Katie Spikes, a respected 60 Minutes and CBS News producer, has passed away at the age of 53 after bravely fighting cancer for five years. Known for her expertise behind the scenes, Spikes had a remarkable talent for securing interviews with prominent figures, including former President Barack Obama. Last year, she played a crucial role in producing the 60 Minutes profile of Tony Bennett, the jazz legend who battled Alzheimer’s disease but still mesmerized audiences with his performances. She is survived by her husband Donald Furrer, their sons James (14) and Owen (12), her stepson Brandon, as well as her parents Judith and James, and sister Sarah. CBS News expressed its heartfelt loss, stating, “We have lost a beloved member of our CBS News family. Katie Spikes, a dedicated and longtime producer, has passed away after her valiant fight against cancer.”
Tributes to the long-time producer
CBS News mourns the loss of longtime producer Katie Spikes. She dedicated three decades to CBS News and was a beloved colleague and friend at “60 Minutes.”
Katie had previously worked with the iconic show ‘Larry King Live’ on CNN before joining CBS News. She held the position of Senior Story Editor and guest coordinator at ’60 Minutes.’
The show ’60 Minutes’ had famous guests like Barack Obama, Michael Lewis, and Joaquin Phoenix, and featured a segment on pop icon Tony Bennet, with Lady Gaga making an appearance.
Larry King Live
CBS News Evening tweeted that it had lost a family member. Earlier, Katie worked for CNN and was associated with the iconic show ‘Larry King Live’. She quit CNN and moved to CBS News. Later she joined ‘60 Minutes’ as its Senior Story Editor and guest coordinator.
Barack Obama
Celebrities Barack Obama, Michael Lewis, and Joaquin Phoenix appeared on this show. Katie was also involved with the ‘60 Minutes’ feature on pop icon Tony Bennet. Lady Gaga appeared in this show. Spikes was living in New Jersey with her family members. Netizens have paid rich tributes to the journalist.
Katie Spikes lived in New Jersey with her family. Netizens have paid heartfelt tributes to the journalist on social media. Her friend, Eric Schwartzreich, a criminal defense attorney, is finding it hard to believe the sad news.
