Michael Keaton to accept IRE’s Champion of Investigative Journalism Award

(September 4, 2025) — One of Hollywood’s most celebrated stars will join a parade of journalism legends in New York this month for the Investigative Reporters and Editors 50th Anniversary Gala, honoring five decades of grit, guts and glory.

Michael Keaton, acclaimed actor, director and press freedom advocate, will receive IRE’s first Champion of Investigative Journalism Award, recognizing his spot-on portrayal of journalists and steadfast support for a free press.

“It’s humbling and ironic to receive an award from this assembly of exceptional journalists and editors. I have the great privilege of portraying the work they do from the relative comfort of a film set, while they risk their lives bringing the truth to light," said Keaton. 

“When I step into these roles, I receive attention and praise, while heroic journalists continue their challenging and critically important life’s work, often without recognition. Bringing the stories of their courage and achievement to a wide audience is deeply meaningful to me.”

The fundraising event will take place Sept. 15 at Gotham Hall in the heart of Manhattan. For more information, go to the 50th Gala website.

Keaton and more than a dozen real-life truth tellers will be recognized for their achievements, including Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein of Watergate fame; Julie K. Brown, the Miami Herald reporter who broke the Jeffrey Epstein scandal; and Renee Ferguson, the first Black woman to work as an investigative reporter on television in Chicago.

IRE President Josh Hinkle said Keaton was chosen for the award because of his unwavering dedication to freedom of the press, even as attacks on journalists have increased. 

“Michael Keaton has shared with audiences characters who uncover truth and challenge power – but beyond the screen, he’s used his voice to champion the vital role of investigative journalism in a healthy democracy,” Hinkle said. “This award — the first for IRE — honors his commitment to reminding us all why facts, integrity and fearless reporting matter now more than ever. We are thrilled he will join us to accept it at our 50th anniversary celebration.”

Starring in “The Paper” and “Spotlight,” Keaton’s roles as an editor have shown the value of investigative journalism and its ability to shine a light on corruption, wrongdoing and betrayal of trust.

In “Live from Baghdad,” Keaton starred as a CNN producer covering the Gulf War with his team, bringing to vivid life the dangers and necessity of warfront coverage.

“This role was about telling the story of why investigative reporting matters — how it can change lives, protect democracy and hold those in positions of power accountable,” Keaton said. “Journalists don’t always get the credit they deserve, so if a movie can shine a light on what they do, that’s important.” 

Keaton’s work helps protect the future of journalism.

“When an actor of Keaton’s caliber plays a journalist, with his passion and sensitivity that so accurately reflects us, it increases the public interest in what we do,” said IRE Executive Director Diana R. Fuentes. “It encourages the next generation to join our ranks and motivates veteran journalists to keep pursuing stories that matter.” 

Keaton, who was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, studied journalism at Kent State University in Ohio. While he eventually turned to acting, he has stayed an informed member of his community and a global citizen. He said he reads two newspapers a day, sometimes three — including his hometown’s Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.

“I’ve always believed that if you want to know what’s really going on, you read the paper. Local papers especially are the backbone of informed citizens, and they deserve our support now more than ever,” Keaton shared.

Scott Pelley, longtime correspondent for CBS’ 60 Minutes, will host the night’s festivities. Attendees will enjoy an evening of elegant dining and camaraderie as IRE pays tribute to exceptional journalists, representing key moments in investigative journalism since the organization started in 1975.

The event is sold out, but those interested can contact planner Jill Vanzino about possible sponsorships or other questions at jvanzino@inezevents.com. Contributions are still welcome and appreciated at bit.ly/IRE50. All proceeds will support IRE’s vital training programs and resources for journalists.

IRE, a nonprofit grassroots organization dedicated to providing training, resources and a safe forum for journalists, is the largest journalism organization based in the United States with nearly 5,000 members.