Andy Rooney, born on January 14, 1919, in Albany, New York, was an American radio and television writer, journalist, and commentator. He is best known for his witty and often humorous essays and commentaries on the CBS News program “60 Minutes.” Rooney’s distinctive style and insightful observations made him a beloved figure in American journalism.
Rooney began his career as a writer for the U.S. Army’s Stars and Stripes newspaper during World War II. After the war, he worked as a freelance writer and radio personality before joining CBS News in 1949. His work on “60 Minutes,” particularly his segment “A Few Minutes with Andy Rooney,” which aired from 1978 to 2011, brought him widespread recognition and popularity.
Here are a few quotes from Andy Rooney:
- “Everyone wants to live on top of the mountain, but all the happiness and growth occurs while you’re climbing it.”
- “The average bright young man who is drafted hates the whole business because an army always seems to consist of large numbers of people doing things they hate to do.”
- “I’ve learned… that everyone talks about wanting to change things and help and fix, but ultimately all you can do is fix yourself. And that’s a lot. Because if you can fix yourself, it has a ripple effect.”
- “I’ve learned that the best classroom in the world is at the feet of an elderly person.”
- “The closing of a door can bring blessed privacy and comfort—the opening, terror. Conversely, the closing of a door can be a sad and final thing—the opening a wonderfully joyous moment.”
As for his books, Andy Rooney wrote several books compiling his essays and observations. Here are five notable books by Andy Rooney:
- “Common Nonsense” (2002) – A collection of humorous and thought-provoking essays on various topics, including politics, everyday life, and social issues.
- “Years of Minutes: The Best of Rooney from 60 Minutes” (2003) – A compilation of Rooney’s most memorable and popular commentaries from his time on “60 Minutes.”
- “My War” (1995) – A memoir in which Rooney reflects on his experiences as a war correspondent during World War II, offering personal insights and anecdotes.
- “Sincerely, Andy Rooney” (1999) – A collection of letters written by Rooney, providing a glimpse into his thoughts, opinions, and correspondence with fans.
- “Out of My Mind” (2006) – An exploration of Rooney’s musings on various topics, including aging, technology, and societal changes.
These books showcase Andy Rooney’s unique perspective on life, his ability to find humor in everyday situations, and his skill in capturing the essence of human experiences. Rooney’s wit and wisdom continue to entertain and resonate with readers.