At dawn on Sunday, Barcelona bid farewell to a man whose name had been synonymous with Spanish journalism for decades. Joan Armengol Costa, born in 1934 in Igualada, lived a long and remarkable life, leaving behind not only thousands of interviews but also an entire generation of inspired colleagues. His passing is more than just news—it’s an event that prompts reflection on how media has changed and why such figures have become rare.
Armengol was more than just a voice on the air. He could truly listen, asking the questions that sparked debates on the streets and in newsrooms. His career began at Ràdio Barcelona, where he quickly became one of the most recognizable hosts. Later, he worked at RTVE, where his programs drew millions of Spaniards to their screens and radios. In his later years, he chose a more intimate yet equally significant path, working for Ràdio Estel, where he continued to share his experience and perspective on the world.
A career in journalism
Armengol’s professional journey is a story of how journalism can be more than just a job—it can be a calling. He never sought easy topics or shied away from tough interviewees. His credentials include thousands of interviews, including conversations with world leaders, artists, and scientists. His approach to dialogue was always marked by respect and attention to detail, qualities that are rare in today’s media landscape.
Colleagues recall that Armengol was always ready to support young journalists, sharing advice and being open about his own mistakes. He never hesitated to admit when he was wrong, and this made him especially relatable to listeners. At a time when media are increasingly dominated by ratings and sensationalism, his approach to journalism may seem almost old-fashioned—but that was precisely his strength.
Recent years
Despite his age, Armengol was in no hurry to retire. Even after leaving major TV channels, he continued to broadcast on Ràdio Estel. There, he found a new audience and was able to express himself in a calmer, yet no less important format. His shows were marked by a unique atmosphere of trust and sincerity, something especially valued today.
Armengol’s death came as a blow to many of his colleagues and listeners. In Barcelona, where he spent most of his life, his name was known well beyond professional circles. On Monday at 3:00 pm, a farewell chapel will open at the Sancho de Ávila funeral home, where everyone can pay their respects to a man who dedicated his life to the craft of words.
Legacy and remembrance
Joan Armengol left behind not only archives of broadcasts and interviews, but also a special atmosphere that is hard to put into words. His style, his ability to connect with all sorts of people, his drive to get to the heart of the matter—all this became a benchmark for many young journalists. In the digital age of rapid information, his approach is more valuable than ever.
Today, as journalism faces challenging times, figures like Armengol serve as a reminder that the profession can be honest, profound, and humane. His passing is not only a personal loss for his family and friends but also marks the symbolic end of an era in the Spanish media. Still, his legacy will live on in the hearts of those who heard his voice and learned true journalism from him.
