After nearly 100 years, CBS News is set to close its CBS News Radio division on Friday. The radio service, which has been on the air since 1927, was a precursor to the larger CBS News network.
The iconic CBS World News Roundup, the oldest American network newscast, first aired in 1938. It featured journalist Edward R. Murrow and other correspondents reporting live from Europe during the lead-up to and throughout World War II. This coverage provided Americans with a unique perspective on global events.
Dan Rather, a renowned figure at CBS News, shared memories of his parents using radio as a portal to the world during the turbulent times of the war. Rather, who started his career in radio before transitioning to television, highlighted the pivotal role CBS Radio played in uniting the nation.
While the radio service had a long-standing reputation for trusted news reporting, changing consumer habits and the rise of digital media have impacted its relevance. Professor Richard John emphasized the shift in news consumption habits towards online platforms like social media and news websites.
In late 2025, CBS made cuts to its radio programming, leading to the closure of CBS News Radio. The decision to shut down the service was attributed to significant changes in the media industry, making it challenging to sustain traditional radio operations in the current landscape.
The closure of CBS News Radio has raised concerns about the diminishing diversity of voices in American media. As traditional news outlets face challenges, the dominance of opinion-driven content in podcasts and cable news has further complicated the media landscape. The loss of CBS News Radio signifies a broader trend of consolidation and change within the industry.