Remembering biz journalism legend Chris Byron

Gregory Menti of The Weston Forum in Connecticut writes about business journalist Chris Byron, who died last month.

Menti writes, “Byron’s most successful book was his 2002 unauthorized biography of Martha Stewart, called Martha Inc.: The Incredible Story of Martha Stewart. It was a New York Times bestseller and was made into a TV movie starring Cybill Shepherd as Martha Stewart.

“The book chronicles Stewart’s journey into fame, from her working class background to her billion-dollar empire. It details Stewart’s drive, energy and determination, but also exposes the ruthlessness and willingness to exploit the talents, and sometimes the loyalty, of many people.

“Byron’s book on the renowned Domestic Goddess benefited from great timing. About a year after the book was released, Stewart was indicted on fraud charges. ‘It came out and she got indicted soon after — it couldn’t have been timed better if he’d paid someone,’ said Jana.

“Byron was incredibly proud of Martha Inc., Jana said. It was his only bestseller and made-for-TV movie.

“’It was a really big deal to him that the book was a bestseller,’ Jana said. ‘When he found out it was going to be a movie, he was thrilled that his work was being recognized.'”

Read more here.