Veteran Journalist Ignacio Fontes Passes Away at 77

Ignacio Fontes, a prominent figure in Spanish journalism, has passed away at the age of 77 at a hospital in Madrid, as confirmed by his family. Born in 1947 in Lo Pagán, Murcia, Fontes was a significant contributor to the field of journalism, particularly noted for his work during Spain's Transition and subsequent years.

Since March 2023, he had been overseeing the 'Memorandum' section at elDiario.es, where he provided weekly reflections on historical events, drawing from his extensive experience accumulated over more than fifty years in journalism.

A passionate scholar of the comic genre, Fontes authored several books on the subject. His career took off in 1974 when he was appointed as the secretary general of Redacción at Cambio 16, a notable magazine that played a crucial role in antifranquismo and established itself as a key player in Spanish journalism. In 1989, he became the director of the weekly magazine Interviú.

In addition to his journalistic endeavors, Fontes was also an accomplished writer, producing novels, essays, and poetry in recent years. He served as a member of the Commission of Guarantees for Reporters Without Borders, advocating for press freedom and the rights of journalists.

Fontes was admitted to a Madrid hospital in mid-December, where he was diagnosed with cancer. Complications from the illness ultimately led to his passing, as explained by his family. In accordance with his wishes, his farewell will be held in private, attended only by family members.

His contributions to journalism and literature will be remembered by colleagues and readers alike, marking the end of an era defined by his commitment to uncovering the truth and fostering a robust democratic society.