Mike Downey

Mike Downey (August 9, 1951 – June 12, 2024) was an American newspaper columnist. He was known for his columns in the Chicago area, such as writing pieces for the Chicago Tribune, the Chicago Sun-Times and Chicago Daily News. In his later years, he began writing for the Los Angeles Times and CNN.

Career Downey began a career in journalism at age 15 for a newspaper chain in the south suburbs of Chicago.

He was included as a character in the Elmore Leonard novel Be Cool. In retirement, he wrote book reviews for the Times and columns for CNN.com. Michigan (twice) and California (seven times).

He was honored for his news column by the Los Angeles Press Club in 1998 and won the 1994 Eclipse Award, thoroughbred racing's highest honor. Downey's writing appeared in a variety of national magazines including GQ, Parade, Entertainment Weekly, Disney Adventures, American Way, Reader's Digest and TV Guide.

Personal life Downey was born in Chicago Heights, Illinois, on August 9, 1951.

Downey resided in Rancho Mirage, California. Downey died from a heart attack in Rancho Mirage, on June 12, 2024, at the age of 72.