Charles Osgood, a venerated figure in American journalism renowned for his long tenure as the anchor of CBS’s “Sunday Morning” and his radio program “The Osgood File,” passed away on Tuesday, January 23, 2024, at the age of 91. He died at his home in Saddle River, New Jersey, from complications related to dementia.
Osgood’s career in broadcasting spanned over five decades, marked by a distinctive style that combined warmth, erudition, and a unique flair for music and verse.
After graduating from Fordham University in 1954, he began his journey in the industry as a radio announcer and program director in Washington, D.C., including a stint at WGMS.
His career was also interspersed with a period of military service from 1954 to 1957, during which he served as the announcer and pianist for the United States Army Band.
Joining CBS News in 1967, Osgood quickly established himself as a versatile reporter and anchor. He hosted the CBS Sunday Night News from 1981 to 1987 before taking the helm of CBS News Sunday Morning in 1994, a position he held with distinction until his retirement in 2016.
His tenure on “Sunday Morning” surpassed that of the original host, Charles Kuralt, becoming a signature element of the show’s long-standing success.
In reflecting on Osgood’s legacy, Jane Pauley, who succeeded him as the host of “CBS Sunday Morning,” praised his masterful communication skills and the warmth and intelligence of his voice and delivery. Osgood’s career serves as an exemplar for journalists, combining professionalism, eloquence, and a genuine connection with the audience.
His radio work was equally significant. He began hosting “The Osgood File” in 1971, a daily radio commentary series that continued for nearly five decades. His distinctive sign-off, “I’ll see you on the radio,” became a familiar phrase to listeners nationwide.
Apart from his broadcasting achievements, Osgood was also an accomplished writer and musician. He authored several books, wrote a syndicated newspaper column, and even had a writing credit for the 2008 animated film “Horton Hears a Who!” His skills as a pianist and his love for music frequently infused his broadcasts, adding a personal touch to his journalistic work.
His contributions to journalism were widely recognized. He won several Emmy awards and was honored with a lifetime achievement award in 2017. His ability to present news with a folksy style and occasional light verse endeared him to audiences, making him a respected and beloved figure in the world of news broadcasting.
Osgood, born Charles Osgood Wood III in Manhattan on Jan. 8, 1933, leaves behind his wife of five decades, Jean Crafton; their five children Kathleen, Kenneth, Anne E., Emily, and Jamie; and his siblings, Mary Ann and Ken. An earlier marriage to Theresa Audette concluded in divorce.
The family expressed their deep appreciation for the public’s embrace of Osgood, highlighting his passion for the “Sunday Morning” community and noting the enriched life he led because of it. They thanked his audience for their warm reception and remembered his signature sign-off, indicating he will always be remembered through his radio presence.
CBS News Sunday Morning” will honor Osgood with a special broadcast on January 28, 2024.
