Norm Clarke, a prominent figure in the world of journalism, has passed away at the age of 82 after a prolonged battle with prostate cancer. His brother, Jeff Scheid, confirmed that Clarke died on Thursday at a hospice center in Las Vegas. Clarke’s legacy is marked by his unique contributions to both sports journalism and celebrity gossip, making him a beloved figure in the vibrant landscape of Las Vegas media.
Clarke was easily recognizable due to his signature eye patch, a result of losing his right eye in a childhood accident. This distinctive feature became part of his identity as he transitioned from a sports writer to a celebrity columnist. His Vegas Confidential column for the Las Vegas Review-Journal, which he began in 1999, catapulted him to fame. Through this platform, Clarke provided readers with insider access to the glitzy world of Las Vegas, covering everything from celebrity marriages to unexpected returns of pop culture icons. Notable stories included Britney Spears’ whirlwind marriage in 2004 and Michael Jackson’s surprise comeback to the city in 2006. Glenn Cook, the Executive Editor of the Review-Journal, remarked on Clarke’s impact, stating, “Norm’s Review-Journal column was so popular he became a celebrity in his own right.”
Before his illustrious career in Las Vegas, Clarke honed his skills as a journalist with the Associated Press (AP). He joined the AP in 1973, where he made a name for himself covering the Cincinnati Reds during their back-to-back World Series victories. His reporting on the team, particularly regarding Pete Rose’s contract disputes and retirement, was groundbreaking and often contentious. Clarke’s fearless approach to journalism led to memorable encounters, including a notorious incident where Rose slapped him after being labeled one of Las Vegas’ worst tippers.
Clarke’s journalistic prowess extended well beyond the realm of sports. He played a pivotal role in covering significant events, including the tragic Beverly Hills Supper Club fire in 1977. His determination to report the story saw him running a mile to the scene amid traffic congestion, where he became the first journalist to interview a busboy who had saved lives by alerting diners to evacuate. Clarke’s dedication to his craft was evident as he reported for 16 consecutive hours, capturing the harrowing details of the disaster.
In the 1980s, Clarke’s career took him to Las Vegas, where he reported on the devastating MGM Grand Hotel fire that claimed 85 lives. His investigative work continued at the Rocky Mountain News, where he covered Denver’s successful bid for a Major League Baseball franchise and produced award-winning pieces on illegal sports betting. His ability to navigate complex stories and present them with clarity and insight solidified his reputation as a formidable journalist.
Clarke’s love for journalism was matched only by his adventurous spirit. His passion for storytelling began in his teenage years in Montana, where he earned his first paycheck covering a basketball tournament for $5. This early experience ignited a lifelong commitment to journalism. Beyond the newsroom, Clarke sought adventure, famously running with the bulls in Pamplona, Spain, and enduring a trampling during the inaugural running of the bulls in Tecate, Mexico.
In his later years, Clarke focused on completing his memoir, titled “Power of the Patch.” He envisioned the book being distributed for free in schools and libraries in the cities where he had worked, reflecting his desire to inspire future generations of journalists. His commitment to sharing his experiences and insights exemplified his belief in the power of storytelling.
Clarke is survived by his wife, Cara Roberts Clarke, his siblings Nancy Morast and Newell Clarke, and the family of his godson. A memorial service is expected to be scheduled in the coming weeks, allowing friends, family, and colleagues to honor the life and legacy of a man who left an indelible mark on the world of journalism and the vibrant culture of Las Vegas.
