Rita Cosby and Curtis Sliwa: The Untold Story That Many Never Noticed

For decades, Rita Cosby, a renowned journalist and television personality, and Curtis Sliwa, the outspoken founder of the Guardian Angels, have been fixtures in the New York media landscape. While both are highly visible figures, their intertwined history, marked by personal connection and professional respect, often goes unnoticed. This explainer delves into the who, what, when, where, and why of their largely untold story, exploring its historical context, current dynamics, and potential future developments.

Who are Rita Cosby and Curtis Sliwa?

Rita Cosby is a multi-Emmy Award-winning journalist, television host, and author. She has held prominent positions at Fox News, MSNBC, and CBS, known for her hard-hitting interviews and investigative reporting. She's interviewed numerous world leaders, celebrities, and newsmakers throughout her career.

Curtis Sliwa is the founder of the Guardian Angels, a volunteer unarmed crime prevention organization that started in New York City in 1979. He’s a charismatic and often controversial figure, known for his signature red beret and outspoken views on crime and politics. He has also been a radio personality for many years, providing commentary on local and national issues. Sliwa is now the Chairman of the Reform Party of New York State.

What is the "Untold Story"?

The "untold story" isn't a scandal or a secret affair. It's the long-standing, multifaceted relationship between Cosby and Sliwa, rooted in a shared connection through Cosby's father, Richard Cosby, a Polish resistance fighter in World War II and a New York City Police Officer. Richard Cosby, after immigrating to the United States, dedicated himself to public service. This dedication resonated deeply with Sliwa, who saw in Richard Cosby a model of courage and commitment to community safety.

Rita Cosby has publicly acknowledged the profound impact her father had on her life and career, instilling in her a strong sense of justice and a commitment to truth-telling. Sliwa, in turn, has expressed immense respect for Richard Cosby's service and the values he embodied. This shared admiration for Richard Cosby served as a foundation for the relationship between Rita and Curtis.

Beyond this foundational connection, Cosby and Sliwa have maintained a professional relationship built on mutual respect. They have appeared together on television and radio programs, often engaging in spirited debates on current events. While they may hold differing political views, they have consistently demonstrated a willingness to engage in respectful dialogue.

When and Where did this relationship develop?

The connection began in the late 1970s and early 1980s, coinciding with the rise of the Guardian Angels in New York City. New York at the time was grappling with high crime rates. According to FBI Uniform Crime Reporting data, the early 1980s saw some of the highest crime rates in the city's history. The Guardian Angels, with their visible presence and proactive approach to crime prevention, quickly gained attention.

Rita Cosby, beginning her journalism career, likely encountered Sliwa and the Guardian Angels while reporting on crime and urban issues in New York City. The shared connection through her father likely facilitated a more personal and enduring relationship. Their interactions continued throughout their respective careers, primarily in New York City's media landscape.

Why is this story often overlooked?

Several factors contribute to why this connection often flies under the radar:

• Focus on individual careers: Both Cosby and Sliwa have achieved significant individual success and are often viewed through the lens of their respective professional accomplishments.


• Lack of sensationalism: The relationship is based on mutual respect and shared values, lacking the drama or controversy that often attracts media attention.


• Political differences: While they share a connection, their political viewpoints often diverge, potentially overshadowing the underlying bond. Sliwa has leaned conservative, while Cosby has maintained a more centrist position.


• Subtlety: The connection is often expressed subtly, through respectful interactions and occasional mentions of Richard Cosby, rather than overt displays of affection or collaboration.

Historical Context: New York City in Crisis and the Rise of Citizen Activism

Understanding the context of 1970s and 1980s New York City is crucial to grasping the significance of the relationship. The city was facing a severe fiscal crisis, leading to cuts in essential services, including policing. Crime rates soared, and a sense of lawlessness permeated many neighborhoods.

In this environment, the Guardian Angels emerged as a symbol of citizen activism and self-reliance. They patrolled the streets and subways, providing a visible deterrent to crime. While their methods were sometimes controversial, they filled a void left by the struggling public safety system.

Richard Cosby's service as a police officer during this challenging period would have resonated deeply with Sliwa, who saw the Guardian Angels as a modern-day extension of that dedication to public safety. Rita Cosby, witnessing her father's commitment and the challenges facing the city, likely developed a keen interest in crime and justice issues, which would later inform her journalistic work.

Current Developments and Future Implications

Currently, both Cosby and Sliwa remain active in their respective fields. Cosby continues to appear as a commentator and analyst on various news outlets. Sliwa continues his radio show and remains involved with the Guardian Angels, although the organization's presence in New York City is not as prominent as it once was. He is also pursuing a political career.

The relationship between Cosby and Sliwa continues to be characterized by mutual respect and occasional public appearances together. While they may not be actively collaborating on any projects, their shared history and values likely continue to inform their perspectives on current events.

Likely Next Steps:

• Continued media appearances: It's likely that Cosby and Sliwa will continue to appear on each other's shows or in joint appearances on other media outlets, offering their perspectives on current events.


• Potential for collaborative projects: While not currently planned, there is always the possibility that Cosby and Sliwa could collaborate on a future project, such as a documentary or book, exploring issues related to crime, justice, or the history of New York City.


• Passing the torch: Sliwa's recent political endeavors indicate a desire to shape the future of New York City. It is possible that Cosby, through her journalistic platform, may provide insights or support to initiatives that align with her values and her father's legacy.

In conclusion, the untold story of Rita Cosby and Curtis Sliwa is a testament to the enduring power of shared values, mutual respect, and a common connection to a figure who embodied public service and community dedication. While their paths may diverge at times, their intertwined history serves as a reminder of the complex and often overlooked connections that shape the New York media landscape. Their relationship, born from a shared admiration for Richard Cosby and forged in the crucible of a city facing immense challenges, continues to resonate today, even if it remains largely unnoticed by the wider public.