Terry Anderson, Longest-Held American Hostage in Lebanon, Dies at 76
Globetrotting Journalist Dies at Home in New York
New York, NY – Terry Anderson, the respected Associated Press correspondent who endured nearly seven years of captivity in war-torn Lebanon after being kidnapped in 1985, has passed away at the age of 76. Anderson’s daughter, Sulome Anderson, confirmed his death in Greenwood Lake, New York. Complications from recent heart surgery were the cause of death.
The Story of Anderson’s Captivity
During his more than six years of captivity, Terry Anderson survived unimaginable horrors at the hands of Islamic militants in Lebanon. His eventual release was cause for celebration at the Associated Press headquarters in New York. Lou Boccardi, AP’s president at the time, stated in a memo to staff, “At long, long last, the empty chair at AP’s table is once again occupied. Terry Anderson has been set free.”
Anderson’s memoir, “Den of Lions,” published in 1993, chronicled the grueling and tortuous extent of his abduction. Through Anderson’s account, readers gained a glimpse into the tremendous bravery and resilience he possessed both as a journalist and a hostage. Reluctant to be hailed as a hero, Anderson’s daughter, Sulome, described him as having lived a fulfilling life, content with his accomplishments.
A Life of Perseverance and Contributions
After his release in 1991, Anderson’s life remained eventful. He embarked on a varied and peripatetic career, giving public speeches and teaching journalism at renowned universities. Alongside his journalistic endeavors, he ventured into the hospitality industry, owning and operating a blues bar, a Cajun restaurant, a horse ranch, and a gourmet eatery.
However, the aftermath of his traumatic ordeal left its mark, and Anderson struggled with post-traumatic stress disorder. Yet, a ray of hope arrived when a federal court awarded him millions of dollars in frozen Iranian assets, deemed responsible for his capture. Unfortunately, due to unfortunate investments, Anderson ultimately filed for bankruptcy in 2009.
A Peaceful Life and Legacy
After retiring in 2015, Anderson found solace and contentment on a small horse farm in northern Virginia. Surrounded by the tranquility of the countryside, he relished the quiet and good weather of his location. Despite his traumatic past, he embraced life and maintained a sense of humor, evidenced by his amusing anecdotes shared during interviews.
While Anderson’s years in captivity left a lasting impact, he credited his Christian faith for providing the strength to let go of his anger and find joy. His resilience and pursuit of forgiveness inspired his daughter Sulome, who reconciled with him after writing a book about her journey to Lebanon to confront and ultimately forgive one of her father’s kidnappers.
A Life Filled with Friendship and Love
Aside from his remarkable career, Anderson’s personal life was also noteworthy. Having married and divorced three times, he realized the importance of family. He and his daughter, Sulome, went through a period of estrangement but reconnected after the publication of her critically acclaimed book, “The Hostage’s Daughter.”
Anderson’s death brings both sorrow and a reflection on his contribution to humanitarian work throughout his life. Beyond his extraordinary ordeal, his involvement with causes like the Vietnam Children’s Fund, the Committee to Protect Journalists, and homeless veterans demonstrates his commitment to aiding those in need.
Details of memorial arrangements are forthcoming.
