Russert,probably a genuinely nice guy, was far more enobled in death than his actual performance as an interviewer-journalist in life would fairly merit. This is classic media over-hype of a media journalist who failed to ask the tough questions, but pretended as though he did, watched that he really offended no one of power, played good old boy cronyism, and couldn't hold a candle to some of the greater interviewers including Murrow, Wallace, maybe Severied in his earlier years, Cavett, to name just a few. This is an outpouring for the outpourers.

As for what motivated him, frankly, who cares?

The greatest outpouring of grief for a civilian since John Lennon? Really?! Even though some might believe this,the world does not revolve solely around baby boomers. Youth culture is not only relevant if it happened over a quarter of a centruy ago. Have you ever heard of Kurt Cobain? Do you remember the round the clock coverage of his death for days and mourning for weeks after? Remember the teen and twentysomethings traveling to Washington state to mourn? Remember the suicide threats? There are still song tributes to Kurt Cobain today. No offense to Tim Russert, but I highly doubt anyone but political insiders and people who knew him personally will care that much in 15 years.

http://gawker.com/tag/how-we-watch/?i=5017307&t=the-scale-of-celebrity-d...

Frankly I never cared that much for Russert. I thought he had a tendency to overdramatize events. He was good at his job but not what I would consider great. His death came as a shock but it is probably surprising he didn't die sooner. He went a long way from South Buffalo and, even in death, never returned there. Everyman he was not.

Gee, did the commenters 'read' what you wrote about russert? Kindness, tolerance, being a friend, intergration, generosity of self - everyman? God, only if it were so what a world this would be. Brother Rat compassion it seems, does not abound. Thank you Mr. Peele for your insightful, dedicated thoughtful work.
Lucinda