Picture an American storyteller who weaves pulse-pounding political thrillers with the finesse of a seasoned TV producer—meet Gary Grossman! An Emmy-winning journalist and novelist, Grossman has spent decades crafting stories that grip readers and viewers alike. From producing over 6,000 television programs to penning the acclaimed Scott Roarke series, his knack for blending real-world intrigue with fictional drama has made him a standout in thriller fiction and media.
With a career that spans radio, print, television, and novels, Grossman’s storytelling is as versatile as it is thrilling. Whether you’re diving into his novels or catching one of his documentaries, his work pulses with authenticity and suspense. Ready to explore the world of a media maestro turned bestselling author? Let’s dive in!
The Making of Gary Grossman
Born with a passion for storytelling, Gary Grossman kicked off his career at just 15 as a rock disc jockey in Hudson, New York. A graduate of Emerson College with a Bachelor’s in Communications and Boston University with a Master’s in Urban Affairs, he honed his craft in Boston’s vibrant media scene. From writing for The Boston Globe to critiquing television for The Boston Herald American, Grossman’s early years were a whirlwind of journalism and broadcasting. His move to Los Angeles marked a pivotal shift, where he partnered with Robb Weller to form Weller/Grossman Productions, a powerhouse behind thousands of TV programs.
This blend of media expertise and storytelling instinct set the stage for Grossman’s leap into fiction. Inspired by real-world political tensions and his own experiences covering presidential campaigns, he began crafting novels that feel like they’re ripped from tomorrow’s headlines. His ability to translate complex global issues into gripping narratives is a testament to his multifaceted career.
Gary Grossman’s Unforgettable Stories
Grossman’s Scott Roarke series is the heart of his literary legacy, a collection of political thrillers that follow Secret Service Agent Scott Roarke as he unravels global conspiracies. The series kicks off with Executive Actions, where an assassin’s bullet alters a presidential election, plunging Roarke into a decades-old Soviet plot. Praised as “right up there with the best of David Baldacci” by Michael Palmer, the novel sets a high bar for suspense.
Subsequent books like Executive Treason and Executive Command amplify the stakes, tackling issues like Russian spycraft and terrorist threats to America’s water supply. Grossman’s standalone geological thriller, Old Earth, dives into Galileo’s secrets, blending historical intrigue with modern-day adventure. His non-fiction works, such as Superman: Serial to Cereal and Saturday Morning TV, showcase his love for pop culture, offering nostalgic dives into television history. Grossman’s style—meticulously researched, fast-paced, and character-driven—makes his stories both cinematic and thought-provoking.
What sets Grossman apart is his ability to ground fiction in reality. Drawing on his journalism background and consultations with experts like FBI agents and constitutional scholars, he crafts plots that feel unnervingly plausible. His characters, like the resourceful Roarke and his brilliant fiancée Katie Kessler, resonate with readers for their grit and humanity.
Why Gary Grossman Matters
Gary Grossman’s impact stretches beyond the page. As a professor at Emerson College, Boston University, USC, and Loyola Marymount University, he’s shaped aspiring journalists and writers with his industry insights. His Emmy wins—including a Governor’s Emmy for the USA Network special Healing the Hate—highlight his ability to tackle pressing social issues through media. In literature, his Scott Roarke series has carved a niche in political thrillers, earning praise for its relevance and intensity.
Grossman’s work inspires readers to question the world around them, blending entertainment with reflection on global politics and history. His membership in the International Thriller Writers Association and his role on academic boards further cement his influence as a storyteller and mentor. For fans of thrillers that pulse with real-world stakes, Grossman is a must-read.
- Born: Hudson, New York
- Key Works: Executive Actions, Executive Treason, Executive Command, Old Earth
- Awards: Multiple Emmy Awards, including Governor’s Emmy for Healing the Hate
- Fun Fact: Grossman produced over 6,000 TV programs, from Wolfgang Puck to Beyond the Da Vinci Code.
Snag Executive Actions and dive into Gary Grossman’s electrifying world of political thrillers! Whether you’re a fan of espionage or just love a good story, his books will keep you up all night.