George J. Cotliar, the veteran journalist who served as managing editor of the Los Angeles Times for 19 years, died in his sleep at his Newport Beach home early Monday. He was 94. His daughter, Sharon Cotliar-Zweifach, confirmed the news, noting that her father remained a dedicated “newspaper man” throughout his life.
A Career Defined by the Newsroom
Born in the Bronx on Jan. 16, 1932, Cotliar moved to Los Angeles at age 5. After serving as a personnel sergeant for a base newspaper during the Korean War, he returned to California to pursue his goal of leading the Los Angeles Times. He accepted a $13-a-week pay cut to join the paper, eventually rising through roles including reporter, copy chief, and editor of special sections. He officially achieved his career ambition of becoming managing editor after 21 years with the publication.
During his 19-year tenure as managing editor, the paper earned 10 Pulitzer Prizes. Former National Editor Roger Smith described Cotliar as a manager deeply devoted to the paper’s readers and the specific presentation of news on the front page. His colleagues often noted his intense work ethic, his accurate election-night predictions, and his occasional, spirited outbursts in the newsroom.
George J. Cotliar’s commitment to the news was established early; he set his sights on running the Los Angeles Times while working a newspaper route at age 11.
The Legacy of a Newsroom Leader
Cotliar retired in 1997, marking the end of a 40-year career at the Los Angeles Times. At his retirement party, which drew hundreds of attendees, he was characterized as a “truth teller” who consistently protected his reporters. Even in his later years, he maintained his professional habits, reading and watching the news starting at 5 a.m. each day.
The transition from a more conservative editorial stance to the era of Pulitzer-winning coverage under Cotliar reflects a broader shift in American metropolitan journalism during the late 20th century. His focus on “Page 1” balance suggests that his editorial influence was not just administrative but a deliberate effort to define the daily public narrative for the entire Los Angeles region.
What Happens Next
Frequently Asked Questions
How long was George J. Cotliar with the Los Angeles Times?
Cotliar spent 40 years at the paper, serving as managing editor for 19 of those years.
What were some of Cotliar’s notable newsroom habits?
He was known for an impressive memory, accurate election-night calls, and occasional “near-slapstick” temper, including one instance where he broke his typewriter by slamming the return key.
Who are Cotliar’s survivors?
He is survived by his son, David Cotliar, and his spouse, Kenneth Wang; his daughter, Sharon Cotliar-Zweifach, and her spouse, Dr. Eric Zweifach; and two grandchildren, Abigail Zweifach-Coles and Joshua Zweifach.
What part of the traditional newsroom culture that Cotliar championed do you believe is most vital to preserve today?