Richard Whittaker is a journalist and critic. Born in Macclesfield, a town famous for only two things (the center of British silk production, and Ian Curtis of Joy Division killing himself there), he initially settled on a career as a historian, before swapping that for the only worse paid profession – journalism.

His work has appeared in the Austin Chronicle, Texas Observer, Gallery Watch, the Ad Hoc family of publications, and Fortean Times. He’s also a regular host on Digital Noise at OneOfUs.net, as well as hosting the Breakfast Pub news podcast, and he is part of the Highly Suspect Reviews team

He now lives in Austin, Texas, and is happily married with two fat cats and an adorable dog.

Awards

Four time Austin Chronicle Best of Austin Readers Poll award winner for Best Journalist (2012, 2013, 2014, 2015)

City of Austin Mayor’s Committee for People With Disabilities Media Award (2008)

Texas Classroom Teachers Association Silver Apple Award for Media Excellence (2009-10)

Career Highlights

Fantastic Fest 2012 juror (animated shorts)

Q&A Moderator at Staple 2013 and 2014

Q&A Moderator at Housecore Horror Festival 2014 and 2015

Q&A Moderator at Staple! Indie Media expo 2013-15

Panelist, SXSW Film 2016

Cited in promotional materials for: I Am Not a Serial Killer (2016); Darling (2015); Pod (2015); Embers (2015); Stage Fright (2014); Escape from Tomorrow (2013); American: The Bill Hicks Story (2009)

Education

BA in History, University of York, 1991

Diploma in Medieval Studies, University of York Center for Medieval Studies, 1992

MPhil in Publishing Studies, University of Stirling, 1996

MA in Journalism, University of Texas, 2006