Adam Pemble, a prominent video journalist known for covering some of the most significant global stories over the past two decades, has passed away at the age of 52. He died on Thursday in Minneapolis, surrounded by family and friends, according to Mike Moe, a close friend who supported him during his battle with cancer.
Pemble was celebrated for his ability to bring stories to life through his compelling visuals, embodying the essence of traditional television journalism. His work often focused on the lives of the people and communities he reported on, portraying their narratives with curiosity and empathy.
Starting his journey with the Associated Press in 2007 in New York, Pemble relocated to Prague in 2011 to help establish the AP’s first cross-format operation, integrating video, photography, and text reporting. He played a significant role in enhancing news coverage in Eastern Europe, creating unique pieces that showcased the rich culture and society of the region.
“Adam was an immensely talented journalist and a captivating storyteller who had an exceptional ability to connect with people on camera, made possible by his genuine Midwestern charm,” said Sara Gillesby, AP’s Director of Global Video and a former manager of Pemble. She added, “He represented the very best of our profession.”
Born in Saint Louis Park, Minnesota, in 1972, and raised in Minnesota’s Twin Cities, Pemble earned his degree in mass communications from Minnesota State University Moorhead. His journalism career began in 1997 at KVLY, a North Dakota television station, before moving on to WCCO in Minneapolis.
Arthur Phillips, a fellow cameraman from WCCO, remarked on Pemble’s impressive skills, noting, “He had the qualities of the traditional cameraman combined with a desire for greater challenges.”
After moving to New York, Pemble had the opportunity to cover some of the most significant events, including the Bernie Madoff trial and interviews with figures such as former Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and Donald Trump. His impactful reporting also extended to covering the aftermath of the devastating Haiti earthquake in 2010, where he captured haunting visuals of the destruction, followed by his coverage of the Winter Olympics in Vancouver weeks later.
Upon his transfer to Prague, Pemble quickly became the primary video journalist for major European news stories. He reported on government leaders, violent protests, terror attacks, and significant national elections. Sandy MacIntyre, the former head of global video at AP, praised Pemble’s storytelling abilities, stating that he combined a curious mind with a critical view of those in positions of power, enriching his narratives with depth and color.
During the civil unrest in Ukraine in 2014, Pemble reported from Kyiv and Donetsk, documenting the beginning of Russian-backed protests and later covering the annexation of Crimea. His gripping footage included Ukrainian sailors abandoning their ship while facing turmoil. More recently, he revisited Ukraine after Russia’s invasion in 2022, capturing critical footage during an interview with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, illustrating the ongoing conflict’s severity.
“Adam approached every project with enthusiasm, creativity, and a deep dedication to both his work and his colleagues. His passion for what he did impacted countless people at the AP,” said Julie Pace, Executive Editor of AP.
When he wasn’t on assignment abroad, Pemble focused on local stories in his adopted home of the Czech Republic, showcasing unique traditions and personal narratives. From early morning Christmas fishing to stories highlighting Prague’s graffiti culture, his work reflected his signature style. He continued to use traditional, larger broadcast cameras even as many shifted to smaller devices, demonstrating his commitment to capturing reality authentically.
Pemble’s innovations in visual storytelling extended to new technologies, including aerial videography, for which he gained recognition as the first major news agency operator to shoot live drone footage while covering the migration crisis in the Balkans in 2015.
Outside of his professional life, Pemble was a passionate gardener, known for nurturing plants such as chili peppers on his rooftop in Prague. He also enjoyed experimenting in the kitchen, particularly proud of his vegan culinary creations. His eclectic tastes spanned from indulgent Michelin-star delicacies to comfort foods like Slim Jim jerky and Salted Nut Rolls.
Friends and colleagues remember Pemble fondly for his humor, wisdom, and positivity, which greatly enriched their lives. Dan Huff, a Washington-based AP video journalist, encapsulated Pemble’s essence by stating, “If someone sought a representation of quiet strength, courage, dignity, and kindness, I would present them a picture of Adam Pemble.”
