CBS News shutters its storied radio news service after nearly a century, ending an era

CBS News is ending its radio news service after nearly a century of operation, effective May 22. The decision, announced Friday, is attributed to changing radio programming and economic challenges. CBS News Radio, which began in 1927, predated the television network and featured prominent figures like Edward R. Murrow. The service currently provides news to approximately 700 stations nationwide, primarily known for its hourly news updates. The closure comes as radio's influence has diminished with the rise of television and online media.

CBS News announced a round of layoffs affecting approximately 6% of its 1,100-person staff as part of a strategic restructuring. The company will also end its nearly 100-year-old CBS News Radio service by May 2026, impacting its team and around 700 affiliated stations. Executives cited the changing media landscape as the reason for the cuts, emphasizing the need to adapt to new audiences and invest in growth areas to remain competitive. Employees were informed of the job cuts on Friday, with executives assuring them that the decisions were not based on performance. The company pledged to support affected employees during and after the transition.