Charles Osgood, the longtime host of CBS’ “Sunday Morning,” announced his retirement earlier today.
Osgood, who’s hosted “Sunday Morning” for more than two decades, announced the news on this morning’s broadcast, citing age as among the factors prompting his retirement:
“Some of you may have heard rumors lately that I won’t be hosting these ‘Sunday Morning’ broadcasts very much longer. Well, I’m here to tell you that the rumors are true,” Osgood told viewers during today’s broadcast. “For years now people — even friends and family — have been asking me why I keep doing this considering my age. I am pushing 84. It’s just that it’s been a joy doing it! Who wouldn’t want to be the one who gets to introduce these terrific storytellers and the producers and writers and others who put this wonderful show together?
Since its inception in 1979, “CBS This Morning” has had only two perennial hosts — Osgood and Charles Kuralt, the reporter-anchor also known for criss-crossing the United States for his “On the Road” segments. Upon taking over for Kuralt in 1994, Osgood kept many of the show’s traditions intact, including its long-form feature stories and idyllic shots of nature that conclude every broadcast.
CBS News did not announce a replacement for Osgood. In a story announcing his retirement, CBS News said a 90-minute special highlighting his career is forthcoming.
