9. Mehdi Hasan
The Fearless Interrogator
Mehdi Hasan has built a career as one of the world’s most formidable interviewers and political commentators, a journalist whose sharp intellect and unflinching style have made him both respected and feared by those in power. Born in Swindon in 1979 to Indian parents, Hasan studied Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE) at Oxford before beginning his career in British media. From the outset, his gift for quick thinking, precision, and eloquence set him apart.
Hasan’s early career included stints at ITV and Channel 4, where he worked on current affairs programmes and began to establish a reputation for incisive questioning. He rose to prominence as Senior Editor (Politics) at the New Statesman and later as a presenter on Al Jazeera English, where his Head to Head interview series became a showcase of his skills. Time and again, he confronted world leaders and intellectuals with forensic research and relentless logic, earning admiration for his ability to hold even the most powerful figures to account.
In 2020, Hasan moved to the United States, where he launched The Mehdi Hasan Show on MSNBC and Peacock. There, his profile grew further, as he tackled American politics with the same fearless clarity that had defined his British career. His monologues, delivered with passion and eloquence, became viral moments, praised for combining moral urgency with journalistic rigour.
What makes Hasan so compelling is his blend of preparation and performance. He comes armed with facts, often catching interviewees off guard with evidence they cannot easily dismiss, yet he also communicates with flair and rhythm that captivates audiences. His style is combative but never careless: every question has purpose, every challenge is grounded in evidence.
Beyond broadcasting, Hasan is also an accomplished author. His book Win Every Argument (2023) distilled his expertise in rhetoric and persuasion, offering a guide to debate that reflects his own formidable skills. It was praised for being both practical and inspiring, embodying his belief that truth, when argued well, can prevail.
Throughout his career, Hasan has faced criticism and hostility, particularly for his outspoken defence of Muslim communities and his willingness to challenge entrenched narratives. Yet he has remained steadfast, refusing to soften his voice or dilute his principles. This resilience has only deepened his reputation as a journalist of courage and conviction.
Mehdi Hasan represents the very best of journalism: fearless in pursuit of truth, eloquent in its defence, and unshakable in his commitment to justice. Whether in London, Washington, or Doha, his voice has carried the same message — that power must always be questioned. At #9, he stands as a symbol of the journalist as both warrior and guide, showing how clarity and courage can change the conversation.
