Bill O’Herlihy

Bill O’Herlihy led a full and successful life, yet couldn’t believe that anyone would have the remotest interest in reading his life story

Bill O’Herlihy: full of humility
Bill O’Herlihy: full of humility

Bill O’Herlihy, who died last week, enjoyed a career arc that fooled a lot of people, in the best possible way.

Because he was occasionally goofy once the cameras came on, and endearing to almost everyone who came across him, people missed out on the fact that you don’t get that far in journalism without skill and professionalism, and you don’t get that far in business without a ruthless streak.