Charles Osgood, who has said “good morning” to his audience every Sunday for 22 years, is about to say “goodbye” as host of “CBS News Sunday Morning” in September.
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Osgood plans to continue anchoring The Osgood Files, his daily news commentaries broadcast on the CBS Radio Network, as well as occasionally appear on Sunday Morning.
“I’m here to tell you that the rumors are true”, he said at the end of Sunday’s show. Clad in his signature thick bow tie, Osgood told his viewers that his friends and family frequently ask him why he’s still doing it, considering he’s 83 years old. I am pushing 84. It’s just that it’s been a joy doing it! Osgood will continue to make occasional appearances on CBS Sunday Morning, as well as anchor The Osgood File.
Osgood, long considered one of the TV-news business’ brightest writers, has anchored the program since 1994, when he took the reins of the 90-minute program from its original host, Charles Kuralt.
Osgood started his journalism career at a CBS affiliate radio station in New York City before entering the television business with ABC News.
The iconic host made the announcement during his Sunday morning broadcast on Aug 28. An Air Force brat who grew up around Northern California, he’s still adjusting to the Florida sunshine.
“I want to thank all of them, and all you in our still-growing audience, for your support and encouragement”, Osgood continued. “It’s been a great run, but after almost 50 years at CBS, including the last 22 years here on ‘Sunday Morning, ‘ the time has come”. Among those under consideration are reportedly “Sunday Morning” colleagues Jane Pauley, Anthony Mason and Lee Cowan.
“Charlie is not just beloved by our viewers”. With Osgood as anchor, CBS’ “Sunday Morning” has reached its highest audience levels in almost three decades, and three times the broadcast has earned the Daytime Emmy as Outstanding Morning Program.
“Congratulations on an unbelievable run”, John Dickerson of CBS’ “Face the Nation” told Osgood.
“His impeccable commitment to quality inspires all of us”, he said.
In 1967, he took a job as reporter on the CBS-owned NY news radio station. His distinctive voice has also been heard in the 2008 Dr. Seuss movie, Horton Hears a Who!
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“CBS Sunday Morning” has won the Daytime Emmy as outstanding morning program three times.
