Karl Th. Birgisson, Icelandic media figure and political scientist, dies at 62

Karl Th. Birgisson, a prominent Icelandic political scientist, author, editor, and broadcaster, has passed away at the age of 62. He died on the night of September 16 following a period of illness.

Birgisson was a recognized expert on American history and politics. His extensive media career included roles as a journalist and editor for Pressan, as well as editor for Mannlífi and the digital platforms Eyjan and Herðubreið. He also contributed columns to Fréttablaðið and Heimildin. In broadcasting, he co-hosted the radio program ‘Orð skulu standa’ on Rás 1, which was later adapted for the stage at the Reykjavik City Theatre (Borgarleikhúsið).

In the political sphere, Birgisson served as the executive director of the Social Democratic Alliance (Samfylkingin) from 2002 to 2005 and worked as an assistant to former Finance Minister Jón Baldvin Hannibalsson. An author, his works include books on social issues, the poetry collection Blóðsól, and a children's book about a superhero named Kát, which he co-authored with his daughter.

He is survived by three children and two grandchildren.