Edward R. Murrow: The Voice That Redefined Radio Broadcast Journalism Edward R. Murrow was a legendary figure in American broadcast journalism, ren
Edward R. Murrow: The Voice That Redefined Radio Broadcast Journalism
Edward R. Murrow was a legendary figure in American broadcast journalism, renowned for his pioneering work in radio and television. He began his career with CBS in 1935, initially working in the network’s European Bureau. Murrow gained prominence during World War II with his gripping live radio broadcasts from Europe, which brought the realities of war into American homes. His live radio broadcasts, often beginning with the iconic phrase “This…is London,” vividly captured the realities of the war for American listeners in great detail. He reported on events, as well as reporting (along with the iconic Murrow Boys) on the Blitz in London and the liberation of concentration camps, bringing the war’s human impact into sharp focus.
The “Murrow Boys,“as referenced on CBS war-time radio, were a group of talented journalists handpicked by Edward R. Murrow to work as CBS war correspondents during World War II. They were pioneers in broadcast journalism, known for their fearless reporting and vivid storytelling from the front lines. This group included notable figures like William L. Shirer, Eric Sevareid, Charles Collingwood, Howard K. Smith, and others. They covered major events such as the Blitz in London, the fall of France, and the liberation of Europe.
The Murrow Boys were instrumental in shaping the CBS World News Roundup, a groundbreaking radio news program that brought real-time war coverage to listeners. Their work set a high standard for journalistic integrity and innovation, and they became early examples of “celebrity journalists” due to their prominence.
In the 1950s, Edward R. Murrow hosted two significant CBS Radio programs that left a lasting impact:
1. Hear It Now (1950-1951): This was a groundbreaking weekly radio program that Murrow co-created with Fred W. Friendly. It featured a “magazine” format, blending news, commentary, and sound clips from current events. The show aimed to bring the “actual sound of history in the making” to listeners, covering topics like the Korean War and other major events of the time.
2. This I Believe (1951-1955): Murrow also hosted this unique program, which invited people from all walks of life to share their personal philosophies and beliefs. It was a deeply reflective series that resonated with audiences during a time of social and political uncertainty.
Both programs showcased Murrow’s ability to connect with audiences through thoughtful and innovative storytelling.
Also, in the mid-1950s, he became CBS’s vice president in charge of news and educational programming but soon returned to broadcasting. Murrow co-created and hosted influential programs like ‘Hear It Now‘ on radio and its television counterpart, ‘See It Now‘. His fearless reporting, including a famous exposé of Senator Joseph McCarthy’s tactics during the Red Scare, cemented his reputation as a champion of free and uncensored journalism.
In 1961, President John F. Kennedy appointed him as the director of the U.S. Information Agency, where he worked to promote American values abroad. Murrow’s career left an indelible mark on journalism, and he is remembered as one of the greatest figures in the field.
Edward R. Murrow, born April 25, 1908, passed away from lung cancer on April 27, 1965, making him 57 years old. His heavy smoking habit—reportedly up to 60-70 cigarettes a day—contributed significantly to his illness. He had one of his lungs removed in 1963 due to a malignant tumor but continued to battle the disease until his passing in 1965.
HEAR IT NOW: EDWARD R. MURROW — ‘THE CASE OF THE FLYING SAUCERS’ | June 26, 1950
Audio Digitally Remastered by USA Radio Museum
As an added audio feature for this presentation we spotlight Edward R. Murrow’s radio broadcast,”The Case of the Flying Saucers” from June 26, 1950, as part of his work with CBS. This program explored the growing fascination with UFOs and flying saucers in post-war America. Murrow approached the topic with his characteristic journalistic rigor, presenting interviews with witnesses and experts while maintaining a skeptical yet open-minded tone.
It was one of the earliest serious media examinations of the UFO phenomenon, reflecting the public’s curiosity and concern during that era. His work set a new standard for broadcast journalism and solidified his legacy as one of the greatest journalists of all time.
