Stewart Cheifet, Host of TV’s ‘Computer Chronicles,’ Dies at 87
Stewart Cheifet, the distinguished journalist and television host who presided over the public television series 'Computer Chronicles' for more than two decades, establishing it as an essential chronicle of the early digital revolution, has died. He was 87. Cheifet passed away peacefully at his home in Santa Fe, New Mexico, on January 8, 2026, according to his family. No specific cause of death was provided, though he had faced health challenges in recent years. Launched in 1983, 'Computer Chronicles' served as the definitive guide to the rapidly evolving world of personal computing during the pivotal decades of the 1980s and 1990s. As the show's primary host and managing editor, Cheifet approached complex technological topics with the curiosity of a dedicated student and the clarity of a seasoned educator. He interviewed industry titans including Steve Jobs, Bill Gates, and Steve Wozniak during the formative years of the personal computer boom, demystifying the technology for a generation of viewers who were witnessing the birth of the digital age. Unlike the polished, often promotional tech coverage of today, 'Computer Chronicles' maintained a distinctly journalistic integrity. Cheifet's interviews were known for their depth and technical specificity, treating his audience as intelligent participants eager to understand the 'how' and 'why' behind the technology, not just the 'what.' The show featured segments on new hardware and software, industry news, and debates on emerging issues like privacy and the internet, providing a comprehensive overview of the tech landscape. Born on November 14, 1938, in New York City, Cheifet developed an early fascination with communication technology. After serving in the U.S. Army, he worked in radio and television news, eventually transitioning to producing and reporting on the burgeoning tech sector. His background in journalism was crucial in shaping the show's ethos; he often said his role was to be the 'proxy for the viewer,' asking the questions that a curious but non-expert audience would ask. In a 2015 interview reflecting on the show's legacy, Cheifet noted the challenge of explaining concepts that had no common frame of reference. 'We were explaining what a mouse was to people who had never seen one,' he said. 'We were explaining the internet to a world that hadn't yet connected. Our job was to make the future understandable.' The show was produced by KCSM-TV in San Mateo, California, at the heart of Silicon Valley, giving Cheifet unparalleled access to the pioneers of the industry. His interviews with Bill Gates often focused on Microsoft's strategy and the evolution of Windows, while his discussions with Steve Jobs were famously insightful, capturing the visionary intensity of the Apple co-founder. Beyond interviews, the show included product demonstrations, software reviews, and a 'Saved You a Seat' segment where Cheifet would offer his own analysis of the week's developments. This format provided a balanced mix of information and opinion, making it a trusted resource for tech professionals, hobbyists, and casual viewers alike. After 20 years and over 500 episodes, 'Computer Chronicles' ended production in 2002. While the media landscape had shifted significantly during its run, the show left an indelible mark on technology journalism. Its archives are now preserved by the Internet Archive, serving as a historical record of the industry's most transformative period. Cheifet remained active in technology media long after the show's conclusion, hosting the podcast 'Netcasts for the 'Noobs' and writing commentary on the tech industry. He was a vocal advocate for digital literacy and an early proponent of the open-source movement. He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Margaret; two sons, David and Michael; and four grandchildren. A private memorial service will be held in Santa Fe. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made to the Computer History Museum in Mountain View, California.