US journalist Terry Anderson, known for surviving Lebanon hostage crisis, passes away at 76

Terry Anderson, the former Mideast correspondent for The Associated Press, passed away at the age of 76. He was kidnapped in 1985 and held captive in Lebanon for almost seven years. Anderson's daughter, Sulome Anderson, confirmed to CNN that he died at his home in Greenwood Lake, New York on Sunday.

"My father endured immense suffering while held captive, but in his later years, he found solace and peace," she shared with CNN.

His cause of death remains a mystery, but his daughter revealed to the AP that he had undergone heart surgery not long ago.

The AP journalist started his career in various locations like Kentucky, Tokyo, South Africa, and eventually Lebanon, where he became the news agency’s chief Middle East correspondent after volunteering to go there in 1982.

During his time in Lebanon, Anderson reported on the civil war for three years until he was captured in 1985. Fortunately, he was released in 1991, coinciding with the end of the 16-year civil war.

Wearing a sweatshirt with his picture printed on it, Terry Anderson, a former hostage, happily reunites with colleagues at The Associated Press headquarters in New York on December 10, 1991. He walks with his arm around his fiancee, Madeleine Bassil.

Mark Lennihan/AP

Anderson’s autobiography “Den of Lions,” chronicled his time in captivity.

Anderson once shared with CNN his feelings of guilt and remorse during his capture, expressing sorrow for his family and acknowledging his own mistakes. Despite feeling irrational guilt, he emphasized the importance of taking things hour by hour to cope with the situation.

His daughter reflected on his legacy, highlighting his dedication to humanitarian work through organizations such as the Vietnam Children's Fund, the Committee to Protect Journalists, and his support for homeless veterans. She emphasized that he should be remembered for his positive contributions, rather than his difficult experiences.

This is a developing story. More to come

Editor's P/S:

The passing of Terry Anderson, a renowned AP journalist who endured a harrowing seven-year captivity in Lebanon, fills me with a profound sense of loss and admiration. His resilience and unwavering spirit in the face of unimaginable hardship are a testament to the indomitable human will. Despite the physical and emotional toll of his ordeal, Anderson emerged with a deep compassion for others, dedicating his later years to humanitarian work. His legacy as a fearless journalist and a beacon of hope for those in despair will forever inspire generations to come.

Anderson's story is a sobering reminder of the dangers faced by journalists who risk their lives to report on conflicts around the world. His capture and prolonged imprisonment brought international attention to the plight of hostages and the importance of press freedom. While the circumstances surrounding his death remain unclear, his daughter's revelation of his recent heart surgery raises questions about the long-term effects of his captivity on his health. As we mourn the loss of this remarkable man, it is imperative that we continue to advocate for the safety of journalists and strive to create a world where freedom of expression is cherished and protected.