The CBS Evening News serves as the principal daily evening news broadcast for CBS News, the news division of the CBS television network in the United States. Established in 1948, this program has become synonymous with trusted journalism, delivering headlines and in-depth reports to millions of viewers each night. The CBS Evening News has undergone various transformations over the decades to keep pace with the changing landscape of news consumption, ensuring that it remains relevant and informative in an era where information is constantly evolving.
Since adopting the title "CBS Evening News" in 1963, the program has earned a reputation for its commitment to journalistic integrity and excellence. With a lineup of seasoned news anchors and correspondents, the show features comprehensive coverage of both national and international news stories, breaking developments, and critical analysis. The program not only highlights current events but also provides context and insights that enable viewers to comprehend the complexities of the world around them.
Throughout its history, the CBS Evening News has played a significant role in shaping public discourse, often serving as the primary source of information for many Americans. While it continues to embrace technological advancements and adapts to the viewers' preferences, its core mission remains the same: to inform and engage the public with reliable news reporting. As it moves forward, CBS Evening News will likely continue to evolve, but its foundational commitment to delivering the news with honesty and clarity will always remain at the forefront of its efforts.
CBS Evening News ran for
62 seasons.
Full Cast of CBS Evening News
Norah O'Donnell
as Self - Anchor (504 episodes)
Norah O'Donnell has been a pivotal figure in the realm of television news, particularly since assuming the role of anchor and managing editor for the "CBS Evening News." Her performance in this capacity has been marked by a steadfast commitment to thorough, unbiased reporting and an insightful approach to storytelling. O'Donnell brings a wealth of experience and a keen understanding of both national and international affairs to the program, which is evident in her incisive interviews and her clear, concise delivery of complex stories. Her ability to connect with viewers through her empathetic on-air presence, coupled with her dedication to holding those in power accountable, has solidified her reputation as a trusted source of information. Under her leadership, the "CBS Evening News" has maintained a strong focus on in-depth reporting and investigative journalism, ensuring that the program remains a cornerstone of integrity and reliability in the ever-evolving landscape of television news.
Katie Couric
as Self - Anchor (2 episodes)
Katie Couric's tenure as the anchor of the "CBS Evening News" marked a significant moment in television journalism, as she became the first solo female anchor of a major network evening news program in the United States. Her performance, which began in September 2006, was closely watched and widely discussed, with Couric bringing her distinctive blend of warmth, incisive interview skills, and a background in morning news to the traditional evening news format. Her ability to connect with viewers on a personal level was evident, and she worked to modernize the broadcast with more feature-like pieces alongside hard news. Couric's interview with Sarah Palin in 2008, where she pressed the vice-presidential candidate on her lack of specifics regarding her reading habits and knowledge of foreign policy, was particularly memorable and showcased her prowess as an interviewer. While her time at CBS had its challenges, including adjustments to her on-air persona and the expected competition with established male counterparts, Couric's tenure was also marked by her commitment to storytelling and her willingness to tackle difficult subjects, which contributed to her reputation as a trailblazer in the industry. Her departure from the program in 2011 left an indelible impact on the role of women in broadcast journalism and set a precedent for future generations of female anchors.
Dan Rather
as Self - Anchor (5 episodes)
Dan Rather's tenure as the anchor of "CBS Evening News" was marked by a blend of authoritative journalism and a deep-seated commitment to uncovering the truth. Rather, who took the helm in 1981 after the legendary Walter Cronkite, brought his own Texas grit and seasoned reporting experience to the broadcast. His performance was characterized by an intense and often passionate delivery, which resonated with viewers drawn to his straight-talking style. Rather covered some of the most pivotal moments in recent history, from the fall of the Berlin Wall to the September 11 attacks, always striving to provide context and insight. His dedication to on-the-ground reporting was evident as he often took the lead in the field, showcasing his willingness to venture beyond the anchor desk. Despite facing criticism and controversy during his career, including the disputed "Memogate" incident, Rather's time at "CBS Evening News" solidified his reputation as a fearless newsman who championed the power of journalism to hold the powerful accountable and inform the public.
