CBS News Radio Signs Off: A Historic Era Comes to an End
NEW YORK – On Friday, CBS News Radio anchor Steve Kathan delivered a heartfelt farewell on the final broadcast of “World News Roundup.” With a mix of nostalgia and emotion, Kathan announced, “America’s longest-running newscast signs off for the last time,” in the dim light of the CBS Broadcast Center in Manhattan. The program began its journey on March 13, 1938, marking an iconic chapter in broadcasting history.
Kathan reflected on the past by playing a recording of Edward R. Murrow, a pioneering CBS journalist, who famously stated, “The best in radio reporting is yet to be – good night and good luck.” With those words, Kathan added, “And goodbye,” bringing an end to nearly 23,000 episodes of this beloved 10-minute broadcast.
The closing of CBS News Radio, which employed 26 staff members, came as a result of budget cuts by its parent company, Paramount. These cuts were part of a broader strategy due to ongoing financial pressures in the news sector.
A company representative explained that shifts in programming and tough economic realities made it impossible to sustain the service, which had struggled for years financially. A network executive, who requested anonymity, confirmed that revenues for the service had plummeted to as low as $67,000 per month.
Over the years, CBS News leaders have hesitated to end the radio division due to its historic significance. Editor-in-chief Bari Weiss was reportedly reluctant to make these cuts as well. However, with Paramount grappling with significant debt from its acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery, financial considerations have ultimately taken precedence.
Kathan, who has been with CBS for 39 years, recalled hearing rumors about potential cuts since the company’s ownership changed in the 1980s. Despite the warnings, he remained hopeful that the radio division would continue its legacy.
Throughout its history, “World News Roundup” carved a significant place in American broadcasting, especially during World War II, when CBS reporters provided live updates from the frontlines. As television rose in popularity, CBS adapted, focusing its radio efforts on delivering the latest news to listeners.
Familiar voices like Douglas Edwards and Charles Osgood became staples for audiences, offering insightful reports alongside local news coverage. Osgood, in particular, became a national icon with his engaging style, even saying, “I’ll see you on the radio,” as he transitioned to television broadcasting.
In 2017, CBS sold its radio stations but maintained its commitment to producing news programs. The rise of digital media has posed challenges for traditional radio, as advertisers increasingly favor online platforms.
As the landscape of audio journalism changes, CBS News aims to remain relevant through podcasting and innovative audio projects. Managing editor Charles Forelle noted that the company is exploring new ideas that go beyond traditional newscasts.
Experts suggest that the troubles facing radio date back to the 1996 Telecommunications Act, which allowed for increased ownership of stations by single entities, leading to decreased investment in programming.
Following this shift, some former CBS News Radio employees have found new opportunities at the Worldwide News Network, a service set to launch soon and deliver news coverage across the country. Meanwhile, CBS’s main customers have already diversified their network services by switching to ABC News Audio.
The departure of “World News Roundup” marks the end of an era, but the impact of CBS News Radio on journalism and broadcasting will always be remembered.
