After nearly a hundred years in service, CBS News is set to close its long-standing CBS News Radio division on Friday evening. Established in 1927, the American radio network laid the foundation for the entire CBS News network we know today.
The iconic program, CBS World News Roundup, which first aired in 1938, holds the record as the longest-running American network newscast. During the lead-up to and throughout World War II, listeners tuned in to hear journalist Edward R. Murrow and other correspondents deliver live updates and firsthand accounts from Europe, captivating audiences with a direct link to global events.
Renowned CBS News figure Dan Rather reminisced about the profound impact of radio in his childhood, describing it as a “magic carpet” that transported him and his family to distant places, notably during the tumultuous events in Germany. Before transitioning to television, Rather began his career in radio, covering significant events such as John F. Kennedy’s visit to Dallas in 1963 and later becoming a key figure in CBS’s coverage of the president’s assassination.
Over the years, CBS News Radio garnered trust and respect as a reliable source for breaking news and international affairs. Allison Keyes, a host and correspondent at CBS News Radio, highlighted the service’s critical role during events like the 9/11 attacks, where real-time information without filters or bias was essential for the public.
Despite its historical significance, changes in media consumption habits have led to a decline in radio news listenership. Professor Richard John noted the shift towards online platforms for news consumption, emphasizing that breaking news updates are now more commonly sought online rather than through traditional radio broadcasts.
In late 2025, CBS underwent a restructuring that included the discontinuation of programs like Weekend Roundup and World News Roundup Late Edition. The decision to close CBS News Radio came as part of broader layoffs and restructuring efforts within the company, reflecting the evolving landscape of media consumption and the challenges faced by traditional radio outlets in adapting to digital platforms.
While some have criticized the closure of CBS News Radio, pointing out missed opportunities for adaptation to podcasts and streaming services, the industry’s transformation towards opinion-driven content on various platforms has overshadowed the value of traditional news sources. As major news organizations face layoffs and changes in ownership, concerns about the diversity of voices in American media and the control of information dissemination have been raised.
The closure of CBS News Radio marks a significant loss for journalism and media diversity in the United States, signaling a broader trend of challenges facing traditional news outlets in an increasingly digital and opinion-driven media landscape.
