What Happened to Edward R. Murrow?

Edward R. Murrow, born Egbert Roscoe Murrow on April 25, 1908, in North Carolina, became one of the most revered figures in American broadcast journalism. His career at CBS began in 1935, initially as director of talks and education, but he quickly rose to prominence as a war correspondent. Stationed in London, his vivid and dramatic eyewitness accounts of the Nazi bombing blitzes during World War II, often beginning with his signature phrase 'This is London,' brought the realities of the war directly into American homes and established radio journalism as a vital medium. He also flew on 25 Allied combat missions, reporting from the planes despite network objections.

After the war, Murrow transitioned to television, co-creating and hosting the groundbreaking news and public affairs program 'See It Now' with Fred W. Friendly, which premiered in 1951. This program became a defining moment in his legacy, particularly for its March 9, 1954, broadcast that critically examined Senator Joseph McCarthy's tactics during the anti-Communist hysteria. Using McCarthy's own words and footage, Murrow's report exposed the senator's demagoguery and played a significant role in diminishing his political influence, cementing Murrow's reputation for speaking truth to power.

Murrow's independent thinking and critical broadcasts, however, often put him at odds with CBS executives and sponsors. Following philosophical clashes with CBS chairman William Paley, 'See It Now' was canceled in 1958. Murrow continued to produce impactful documentaries, including the 1960 exposé 'Harvest of Shame,' which shed light on the deplorable conditions of American migrant agricultural workers. This documentary was his final for CBS, as he left the network in 1961 to serve as the director of the U.S. Information Agency (USIA) under President John F. Kennedy.

Edward R. Murrow, a lifelong heavy smoker, developed lung cancer and had a lung removed in 1963. He resigned from the USIA in 1964 due to his failing health and died on April 27, 1965, two days after his 57th birthday, at his home in Pawling, New York. His death marked the end of an era, but his influence on journalism has only grown. He is remembered for his unwavering commitment to journalistic integrity, courage, and the belief in broadcasting's power to inform and enlighten the public.

As of 2026, Edward R. Murrow's legacy remains profoundly relevant. The Radio Television Digital News Association (RTDNA) continues to present the prestigious Edward R. Murrow Awards annually, recognizing excellence in broadcast and digital journalism that upholds his standards. The 2026 Edward R. Murrow Awards Gala is scheduled for October 12, 2026, in New York City, celebrating national winners whose work was published in 2025. Academic institutions, such as the Edward R. Murrow College of Communication at Washington State University (established 2008) and The Edward R. Murrow Center for Global Diplomacy at Tufts University (established 1965), actively preserve his papers and continue to explore the intersection of media, cyberspace, and international relations, with the Tufts center's website showing activity and content updated to 2026. His work, like 'Harvest of Shame,' continues to resonate, with discussions about migrant worker conditions still appearing in news as recently as April 2026. CBS News also continues to feature archival material of Murrow, reinforcing his enduring presence in the history of broadcast journalism.