The crossword puzzle community and fans of NPR’s “Weekend Edition Sunday” were saddened to learn that Will Shortz, the renowned crossword puzzle editor of the New York Times and NPR’s beloved “puzzlemaster,” suffered a stroke last month. Shortz, who has been entertaining and challenging puzzle enthusiasts for over three decades, is currently undergoing rehabilitation as he works towards recovery.
The news of Shortz’s stroke was shared in a recorded message aired on NPR’s “Weekend Edition Sunday” on March 3. Ayesha Rascoe, the host of the show, played an audio clip of Shortz’s message, in which he expressed his apologies for his absence and assured fans that he is making progress in his recovery. Shortz’s dedication to his craft and his commitment to returning to his work were evident as he conveyed his optimism about rejoining the puzzle community soon.
Shortz, 71, has been an integral part of NPR’s “Weekend Edition Sunday” since its inception in 1987. Additionally, he has served as the crossword editor of the New York Times since 1993, a role that has solidified his status as one of the most influential figures in the world of puzzles. He is also known for his tenure as the former editor of Games magazine and as the founder and director of the American Crossword Puzzle Tournament since 1978, a subject that was explored in the acclaimed documentary “Wordplay” in 2006.
Born in Indiana, Shortz’s passion for puzzles began at a young age, and he quickly established himself as a prodigy in the field. Selling his first puzzle at the age of 14 and becoming a regular contributor to Dell puzzle publications at 16, Shortz’s talent and dedication paved the way for his illustrious career. He is recognized as the only individual in the world to hold a college degree in “enigmatology,” a major that he personally designed and earned from Indiana University in 1974.
As the news of Shortz’s stroke spread, an outpouring of support and well-wishes flooded social media platforms and online communities. His impact on the world of puzzles and his warm presence on NPR have endeared him to countless fans around the globe. While Shortz focuses on his recovery, the puzzle community eagerly awaits his return, confident that his resilience and determination will see him through this challenging time.