Tim Russert speaks to the audience before a debate of Democratic presidential hopefuls at Dartmouth College in New Hampshire, 26 Sept. 2007 (file photo)

A major figure in U.S. journalism, Tim Russert, chief of the Washington bureau for NBC television, has collapsed and died of a heart attack in his Washington office.

He was 58 years old.

Russert came to broadcast journalism in 1984 after working for Democratic politicians in his native New York state.

He took over as host of NBC's Sunday morning interview program "Meet the Press" in 1991 and brought the nearly 50-year-old show to the top of the broadcast ratings. He became known for his tough questioning of politicians while maintaining a cheerful demeanor.

Russert also wrote two best-selling books, including one that chronicled the close relationship with his father.

Some information for this report was provided by AFP, AP and Reuters.