After almost a hundred years of operations, CBS News has decided to close its long-standing CBS News Radio on Friday evening. The American radio service, which has been on the airwaves since 1927, was a precursor to the entire CBS News network.
One of the significant milestones in its history was the debut of the “CBS World News Roundup” in 1938, which remains the longest-running American network newscast. This program featured journalist Edward R. Murrow and other correspondents providing live reports and eyewitness accounts from Europe during the Second World War, captivating listeners who tuned in to their radios for updates.
Dan Rather, a renowned figure at CBS News, reminisced about his parents’ fascination with the radio during the era of World War II, describing it as a magical tool that transported them to distant places. He also shared his personal connection to radio, recalling how it was his constant companion during his childhood illness.
Before transitioning to television, Rather began his career in radio, covering John F. Kennedy’s visit to Dallas in 1963. He quickly became one of the leading journalists covering the aftermath of JFK’s assassination, highlighting the pivotal role radio played in informing and uniting Americans during challenging times.
Over the years, CBS News Radio established itself as a trusted source for breaking news and global reporting, leaving a lasting impact on its audience. Allison Keyes, a host and correspondent at CBS News Radio, emphasized the service’s credibility and legacy, particularly citing its critical role during events like the 9/11 attacks.
Despite its historical significance, CBS News Radio faced challenges as audience preferences shifted towards digital platforms for news consumption. The closure of the radio service in late 2025, along with the elimination of key programs, underscored the changing media landscape and the need to adapt to evolving audience behaviors.
As media industry dynamics evolve, with a proliferation of online news sources and podcasts, the closure of CBS News Radio is seen as a loss for journalistic diversity and traditional media voices. Analysts like Ted Johnson expressed concerns about the dominance of opinion-driven content overshadowing traditional news sources, raising questions about the control of information and diverse voices in the media landscape moving forward.