Roy Cohn is Not an Enigma | 60 Minutes: A Second Look
60 Minutes
Deep Dive
Why is Roy Cohn considered a significant influence on Donald Trump?
Roy Cohn was a mentor to Donald Trump, teaching him how to navigate power, avoid responsibility, and manipulate the media. Trump biographer Maggie Haberman noted that Cohn was one of the most important influences on Trump, second only to his father. Their relationship began in the 1970s when Cohn represented Trump in legal matters, including a racial bias suit.
What was Roy Cohn's role during the McCarthy era?
Roy Cohn served as the chief counsel to Senator Joseph McCarthy during the Red Scare, helping to lead investigations into suspected communists in the U.S. government. He played a key role in the prosecution of Ethel and Julius Rosenberg, who were executed for espionage. Cohn admired McCarthy for his willingness to stand up for his beliefs, even if it meant breaking traditional political norms.
How did Roy Cohn's legal career evolve after the McCarthy era?
After the McCarthy era, Roy Cohn reinvented himself as a high-profile attorney for the rich and famous, representing clients like Donald Trump, the Archdiocese of New York, and reputed mafia figures. He became known for his aggressive, win-at-all-costs approach to law, which earned him both admiration and notoriety. Despite facing multiple criminal trials, he was acquitted each time, further cementing his reputation as a formidable lawyer.
What were the circumstances surrounding Roy Cohn's death?
Roy Cohn died in August 1986 from heart failure and complications related to AIDS. Despite persistent rumors about his health, he publicly denied having AIDS, attributing his illness to liver cancer. His death marked the end of a controversial career that began with the McCarthy hearings and ended with his disbarment for dishonesty.
How did Roy Cohn's personal life reflect his public persona?
Roy Cohn's personal life was marked by secrecy and controversy. He never married and faced persistent rumors about his sexuality, which he consistently denied. He lived in a grand New York townhouse filled with eccentric decor, including a collection of frogs and a canopy bed. Despite his flamboyant lifestyle, he maintained a reputation as a fiercely loyal friend and a relentless fighter in both his personal and professional life.
What was the public perception of Roy Cohn during his lifetime?
Roy Cohn was a polarizing figure, with people either loving or despising him. His notoriety stemmed from his early work with Joseph McCarthy, his aggressive legal tactics, and his high-profile clients. While some admired his loyalty and tenacity, others viewed him as ruthless and unethical. His ability to thrive in controversy and his knack for self-promotion kept him in the public eye throughout his career.
How has Roy Cohn's legacy influenced popular culture?
Roy Cohn's legacy has been immortalized in various forms of media, including Tony Kushner's Pulitzer Prize-winning play 'Angels in America,' the Showtime miniseries 'Fellow Travelers,' and the 2023 film 'The Apprentice.' His life and career continue to fascinate audiences, reflecting his enduring impact on politics, law, and culture.
- Donald Trump's birthday toast to Roy Cohn in 1986
- Cohn's mentorship of Donald Trump
- The new film 'The Apprentice'