Peter Sagal, American author and radio host

Who is Peter Sagal?

Peter Daniel Sagal, born on January 31, 1965, is a distinguished American humorist, prolific writer, and an iconic voice in public broadcasting. He is best known for his charismatic and quick-witted role as the host of National Public Radio's (NPR) highly popular weekly news quiz, Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me!, a program that has become a staple for millions of listeners across the United States and beyond. Sagal also gained significant recognition for fronting the insightful and engaging PBS television special, Constitution USA with Peter Sagal.

Sagal's unique blend of intellectual curiosity, sharp humor, and approachable demeanor has cemented his status as a beloved figure in American media, bridging the gap between current events, civic education, and entertainment.

Peter Sagal's Major Contributions to Public Media

Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me!

Since its inception in 1998, Peter Sagal has been at the helm of NPR's Peabody Award-winning program, Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me!. This innovative game show challenges panelists, often comedians, journalists, and public figures, to answer questions about the week's news with a satirical and humorous twist. Sagal's role as host is pivotal; he expertly navigates the often-unpredictable banter, keeps the show's pace lively, and consistently delivers a delightful mix of wit, charm, and intelligence.

The program, which is syndicated on over 700 NPR stations, reaches a weekly audience of over 4 million listeners, making it one of the most listened-to radio shows in the country. Its success lies not only in its comedic take on current events but also in Sagal's ability to engage both his celebrity guests and the live studio audience, often inviting a listener to participate in a segment known as "Not My Job."

Constitution USA with Peter Sagal

In 2013, Sagal ventured into television with the four-part PBS special, Constitution USA with Peter Sagal. This educational yet highly entertaining series saw Sagal travel across the United States on a Harley-Davidson motorcycle, exploring the origins, interpretations, and real-world impacts of the U.S. Constitution. Through visits to historical sites, interviews with legal experts, historians, and everyday citizens, Sagal demystified this foundational document, making complex legal and historical concepts accessible and engaging for a broad audience.

The series underscored Sagal's versatility, showcasing his ability to blend serious journalistic inquiry with his characteristic wit and engaging storytelling, effectively turning civics lessons into compelling television.

Beyond Hosting: Peter Sagal as a Writer and Humorist

While widely recognized for his hosting duties, Peter Sagal's talents extend significantly into writing and humor. Before his radio success, he honed his craft as a playwright, screenwriter, and essayist. His writing often reflects his observational humor and keen insight into American culture and politics. He has contributed to various publications and is also the author of books such as "The Book of Vice: Very Naughty Things (and How to Do Them)," which further illustrates his unique comedic voice and ability to dissect societal norms with a witty, often irreverent, perspective.

Frequently Asked Questions about Peter Sagal

When was Peter Sagal born?

Peter Sagal was born on January 31, 1965.

What radio show does Peter Sagal host?

Peter Sagal is the host of NPR's popular weekly news quiz, Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me!

What is Constitution USA with Peter Sagal?

Constitution USA with Peter Sagal is a four-part PBS television special from 2013 where Sagal traveled the U.S. to explore the history, meaning, and relevance of the U.S. Constitution.

What is Peter Sagal known for besides hosting?

Beyond his hosting roles, Peter Sagal is a respected humorist and writer, with a background in playwriting, screenwriting, and essay writing, and he is the author of published books.