Daniel Okrent is an American writer and editor, best known for his work in journalism, especially in the field of sports. He was born on April 2, 1948, in Detroit, Michigan. Okrent attended the University of Michigan, where he earned a bachelor's degree in history.
In the field of sports journalism, Okrent is widely recognized as one of the pioneers of fantasy baseball. In 1979, he developed the concept and rules for the first fantasy baseball league, which later became the widely popular fantasy sports phenomenon. He is often referred to as the "Father of Fantasy Baseball" for his pivotal role in its creation.
Apart from his contributions to fantasy sports, Okrent has had a successful career as a journalist and editor. He has worked for esteemed publications such as Time, Esquire, and New England Monthly. He also served as the first public editor for The New York Times, a role in which he acted as the readers' representative, addressing their concerns and criticisms regarding the newspaper's journalism.
As an author, Okrent has written several books on various topics, including history, sports, and American culture. Notable works include "Last Call: The Rise and Fall of Prohibition," which explores the history and impact of the Prohibition era in the United States, and "Great Fortune: The Epic of Rockefeller Center," a comprehensive account of the iconic New York City landmark's creation and evolution.
Throughout his illustrious career, Daniel Okrent has made significant contributions to journalism, sports, and literature. His pioneering work in fantasy baseball and his engaging writing have solidified his status as an influential figure in these domains.
