An Accidental Career: My Fifty-Eight-Year Adventure as a Broadcast News Reporter

A remarkable journey through the world of broadcast journalism, showcasing resilience and dedication. From humble beginnings to a celebrated career in Los Angeles, this story highlights the challenges faced and triumphs achieved in the pursuit of truth and candor.

In An Accidental Career, Hal Eisner recounts his extraordinary life, beginning with his formative years in Pittsburgh and Dallas. His passion for communication and reporting ignited during his early days in radio, where he honed his skills and developed a unique voice that would resonate with audiences for decades. Transitioning to television, Hal spent 43 years as a news reporter in Los Angeles, working first with CNN and then local news stations KTTV and KCOP. His commitment to delivering accurate and compelling news earned him numerous accolades, including a prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award from the Radio and Television News Association of Southern California (RTNA).

Hal's journey was not without its trials. In 2021, while covering a story in Hollywood, he was severely injured in a crash caused by a drunk driver. This life-altering event tested his resolve and determination. Despite the challenges of recovery, Eisner's unwavering spirit propelled him back to the airwaves just months later, demonstrating his dedication to journalism and the communities he served.

Through candid reflections and engaging anecdotes, Eisner provides readers with an insider's view of the broadcast industry, revealing the intricacies of news reporting and the ethical dilemmas faced by journalists. His story is not just about personal achievement; it is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of accuracy and getting the story right no matter the obstacles. An Accidental Career is an inspiring narrative that will resonate with anyone who appreciates the art of storytelling and the impact of news on society

Author: Hal Eisner
Publisher: Palmetto Publishing
Published: 01/27/2026
Pages: 272
Binding Type: Paperback
Weight: 0.81lbs
Size: 9.00h x 6.00w x 0.57d
ISBN: 9798318816536

About the Author
Eisner, Hal: - Hal Eisner, now retired, was a celebrated broadcast journalist with a fifty-eight-year career, including fifteen years in radio and forty-three years in television. On TV, he reported primarily for FOX 11, KCOP, and CNN in Los Angeles. Eisner hosted the public affairs series FOX 11 News In Depth from 2017 to 2025 as well as the podcast "What the Hal?" Known for his calm demeanor and compassionate reporting style, he has received numerous awards, including Emmys and Lifetime Achievement honors from the Associated Press and the Radio and Television News Association. Eisner founded the mentoring program Camp News and serves on the National Board of SAG-AFTRA.