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The Impact of Gene Hackman on Fans and the Value of Journalism: Unveiling The Backstory

Published on May 2, 2025
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A message from the editor in chief

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As the editor in chief of USA TODAY, connecting with readers who appreciate our journalism is truly rewarding.

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Since its inception in 1982 by Al Neuharth, USA TODAY has been known for its innovative and colorful design that revolutionized traditional newspapers. Neuharth's emphasis on reader-friendly content and engaging storytelling set the standard for the nation's newspapers.

At USA TODAY, we strive to create a deep connection with our audience through captivating stories and reliable news. Starting May 4, we are launching The Backstory, a newsletter and column exclusively for subscribers, offering a behind-the-scenes glimpse into our journalism process.

Our commitment to informative and people-focused journalism is reflected in our dedication to service and accountability. We aim to provide you with news that enriches your life and captures the essence of important moments and events.

One such example is the moving piece by senior journalists Rick Jervis and Marco Della Cava on the final days of Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa. Their in-depth coverage shed light on the couple's impact on the Santa Fe community and their unexpected passing.

We value your feedback as it reinforces the significance of our work and motivates us to continue delivering high-quality journalism.

Join us in supporting USA TODAY and our journalists by becoming a subscriber and gain access to exclusive content like The Backstory.