Introduction: Remembering Manuel Erice

Manuel Erice Oronoz was an influential Spanish journalist, author, and media professional whose work left a lasting impact on both Spanish and international journalism. Born on December 18, 1965, in Pamplona, Navarra, Spain,  https://officalericemanuel.com/   Erice built a career rooted in deep analytical reporting, international perspective, and a steadfast commitment to journalistic integrity before his passing on August 12, 2018 at the age of 52 after battling cancer.

In a media landscape that was rapidly evolving, he distinguished himself by mastering both traditional reporting and emerging digital platforms. His legacy extends through his roles at one of Spain’s most important newspapers and his incisive analysis of global political dynamics.

Early Life and Education

Manuel Erice grew up in Pamplona, a historic city in northern Spain known for its cultural traditions such as the Running of the Bulls. He pursued his passion for communication by studying Information Sciences at the University of Navarra, one of Spain’s leading journalism schools.

His education provided a strong foundation in media theory and practice, preparing him for a multifaceted career spanning radio, print journalism, and broadcast commentary. It also instilled in him a respect for ethical reporting and a deep curiosity about global events.

Beginnings in Journalism

Erice began his journalistic journey in 1988 with Cadena Ser, a major Spanish radio network, where he worked in the Radio Pamplona studios. It was a formative period in his career, where he developed his skills in news gathering and reporting.

Soon after, he expanded his experience by working in the Canary Islands. There he contributed to El Día and Canarias7, regional newspapers that offered him exposure to diverse political and social contexts. This early period helped shape his understanding of the broad spectrum of Spanish public life.

Rise at ABC: National and International Journalism

Manuel Erice’s most significant professional achievements took place at ABC, one of Spain’s most respected national newspapers. He initially joined as a sports correspondent in Pamplona but quickly advanced through a series of roles that showcased his broad journalistic capability.

In the early 1990s, Erice relocated to Castilla y León, where he quickly became a central figure in the development of ABC’s regional edition. By 1995, he was named delegate of ABC in the region, directing editorial content and expanding the newspaper’s influence there.

His career at ABC included a diverse portfolio of leadership positions, including:

• Redactor jefe (Chief Editor) of National Affairs

• Chief of International Reporting

• Subdirector of Digital Media, Weekend Editions, and Territorial Expansion

In these roles, Erice demonstrated a rare combination of editorial vision and managerial leadership, helping ABC navigate both political reporting and digital transformation.

International Correspondent in Washington

One of the most prominent chapters in Erice’s career was his appointment as ABC’s correspondent in Washington D.C. in 2015. This role placed him at the heart of global political developments and allowed him to cover major international stories with depth and insight.

Most notably, he reported on the 2016 U.S. presidential election, during which Donald Trump’s rise transformed the American political landscape. Erice’s coverage combined rigorous analysis with cultural context, helping Spanish readers understand the broader implications of American politics.

Author and Analyst: Trump, el triunfo del showman

Drawing on his experiences in Washington, Manuel Erice authored the book Trump, el triunfo del showman: golpe a los medios y jaque al sistema, published in 2017.

The book examines how Donald Trump utilized media spectacle and unconventional communication strategies to disrupt traditional political systems. Erice’s analysis focused on the interplay between politics, media, and public perception, offering readers a nuanced interpretation of how modern leadership and information intersect. It was well regarded for its clarity, depth, and relevance to contemporary political dynamics.

For this work, he was awarded the Prenio al Libro del Año by the Academy of Political Sciences in Washington in 2017, recognizing the book’s importance in explaining shifting global political paradigms.

Media Commentary and Broadcast Presence

Beyond his print journalism, Manuel Erice was a respected voice on Spanish television and radio. He frequently appeared as a political analyst on major media outlets, including:

• RTVE

• Telecinco

• Telemadrid

• NTN24 (Colombian international news channel)

His broadcast appearances showcased his ability to interpret complex political developments for a broad audience, combining factual reporting with informed commentary. This made him a trusted voice for viewers seeking context in a rapidly changing world.

Professional Recognition and Posthumous Honors

After his death in 2018, Manuel Erice’s contributions continued to be honored. In December 2018, he was awarded the Francisco Cossío Journalism Prize for Career Achievement by the government of Castilla y León, posthumously recognizing a lifetime of journalistic excellence and public service.

Colleagues and peers remembered him as a dedicated professional who remained true to the core values of journalism: accuracy, integrity, and a commitment to helping the public understand their world.

Personal Strength and Legacy

Erice’s fight with cancer, which he confronted with resilience and dignity, became an integral part of his legacy. His determination to continue writing and reporting even during his illness inspired many within the journalism community.

At his funeral in Pamplona, colleagues, friends, and public figures paid tribute to a life dedicated to truth, informed debate, and intellectual rigor.

Conclusion: The Enduring Influence of Manuel Erice

Manuel Erice’s career reflects the evolution of journalism over several decades—from regional reporting to international political analysis, and from print to digital media. His work exemplified a deep commitment to understanding global affairs and communicating them with clarity and nuance.

Through his editorial leadership, broadcast commentary, and influential writing, Erice helped shape public understanding of some of the most significant political shifts of his time. His legacy continues to inspire journalists and media professionals across Spain and beyond.