Charles Osgood, CBS Host and Poet-in-Residence, Dies at 91

Charles Osgood, CBS Host and Poet-in-Residence, Dies at 91

Charles Osgood, a highly acclaimed journalist and beloved anchor of “CBS Sunday Morning,” has passed away at the age of 91. Osgood, who won five Emmy Awards, hosted the long-running radio program “The Osgood File” and was known as CBS News’ poet-in-residence. He died at his home in Saddle River, New Jersey, after battling dementia.

Osgood was a talented broadcaster with a passion for music and a knack for writing essays and light verse. He seamlessly transitioned between radio and television, leaving his mark on both mediums. His sign-off line, “I’ll see you on the radio,” became iconic.

Rand Morrison, executive producer of “Sunday Morning,” expressed his admiration for Osgood, stating that there was truly no one like him. Osgood embodied the heart and soul of the show and had a unique ability to put people’s lives to music on the piano. He was truly one of a kind.

In honor of Osgood’s legacy, “CBS News Sunday Morning” will air a special broadcast dedicated to him on Sunday.

When Osgood took over as host of “Sunday Morning” in 1994, he had big shoes to fill following the retirement of Charles Kuralt. However, with his folksy charm and distinctive bow-tied style, he immediately connected with viewers who appreciated the program’s unhurried approach.

Osgood’s career began as a classical music DJ in Washington, D.C., after graduating from Fordham University in 1954. He served in the Army before returning to help start WHCT in Hartford, Connecticut. In 1963, he joined ABC Radio in New York as an on-air personality.

In 1967, Osgood became a reporter for CBS-owned New York news radio station NewsRadio 88. It was during a fateful weekend that he was asked to fill in at the anchor desk for the network’s Saturday newscast. In 1971, he officially joined CBS and launched his famous segment, “The Osgood File.”

Throughout his career, Osgood received numerous accolades, including induction into the National Association of Broadcaster’s Hall of Fame in 1990 and the National Association of Broadcasters Distinguished Service Award in 2008. He won four Emmy Awards and was honored with a fifth lifetime achievement award in 2017.

After retiring in 2016 following 45 years in journalism, Osgood reflected on his career with gratitude. He expressed that despite his age, he continued because it brought him immense joy. He bid farewell to his audience with a few lines from a favorite folk song, “So long, it’s been good to know you. I’ve got to be driftin’ along.”

Jane Pauley succeeded Osgood as the host of “Sunday Morning,” becoming only the third host in the program’s history.

Charles Osgood leaves behind a remarkable legacy in the world of journalism. His unique style, warm personality, and love for music will forever be remembered.