Betty Cole Dukert, the trailblazing producer behind the iconic NBC News program “Meet the Press,” passed away at the age of 96 on March 16 at her home in Bethesda, Md. Her remarkable career began in the 1950s as a secretary in Washington, eventually leading her to become the driving force behind one of the longest-running and most influential public affairs shows on television.
During her 41 years at “Meet the Press,” Betty Dukert booked a wide range of guests, from politicians to cultural figures to heart surgeons, ensuring that the program remained a must-watch for viewers every Sunday morning. Her dedication to her work was evident in her relentless pursuit of the most capable reporters for the panel and her thorough research on the subjects to be discussed.
Colleagues and friends remember Betty as a gracious and intelligent professional, with impeccable judgment and tact. Despite the male-dominated industry, she rose through the ranks at “Meet the Press,” becoming a rare female presence in a top production role at a major network news program.
One of the highlights of Betty’s career was a trip to Beirut, Lebanon, in 1976, where she orchestrated an interview with Yasir Arafat, the chairman of the Palestine Liberation Organization. Her experiences behind the scenes, including navigating the demands of elusive leaders like Muammar el-Qaddafi, showcased her resilience and determination in the face of challenges.
Born in Muskogee, Okla., Betty’s early interest in journalism led her to a successful career in the industry. She worked her way up from a secretary and copywriter at a radio station to a producer at “Meet the Press,” where she made a lasting impact on the program and the field of broadcast journalism as a whole.
Throughout her career, Betty Dukert’s dedication to her work and her ability to secure high-profile guests helped shape the legacy of “Meet the Press” as a groundbreaking and influential program in the world of television news. Her contributions will be remembered and celebrated for years to come.
