Charles Osgood, American soldier and journalist

Charles Osgood Wood III (born January 8, 1933), widely recognized by his professional moniker Charles Osgood, was a distinguished American figure in broadcasting, revered as a versatile radio and television commentator, host, and writer. His extensive career, spanning several decades, was marked by a distinctive blend of gentle erudition, insightful commentary, and a unique poetic flair that endeared him to millions across various media platforms.

A Beloved Host of CBS News Sunday Morning

Osgood is perhaps most celebrated for his remarkable tenure as the host of CBS News Sunday Morning. He assumed this pivotal role on April 10, 1994, and gracefully guided the Emmy Award-winning program for over 22 years, concluding his esteemed service on September 25, 2016. Under his calm and thoughtful stewardship, the Sunday morning staple became renowned for its in-depth segments on arts, culture, science, nature, and compelling human-interest stories. These segments were often punctuated by Osgood's reflective, often poetic, observations and his signature sign-off: "I'll see you on the radio." His unique ability to deliver serious news with a comforting presence and a touch of wit cemented his status as a trusted and beloved voice in American journalism.

The Enduring Legacy of The Osgood File

Concurrent with and predating his prominent television duties, Osgood maintained an extraordinary and long-standing presence on radio with The Osgood File. This iconic series of daily radio commentaries, which he hosted from 1971 until his final broadcast on December 29, 2017, was a profound testament to his longevity and versatility in broadcast media. Each installment, typically under two minutes, offered listeners concise, often rhyming or poetic, insights into current events, everyday life, and human nature. Broadcast on the CBS Radio Network to millions nationwide, The Osgood File became one of the longest-running syndicated radio commentaries in history, showcasing Osgood’s distinctive narrative style and his remarkable ability to distil complex topics into engaging, digestible prose that resonated deeply with a broad audience.

Beyond Broadcast: Narration and Literary Works

Charles Osgood's resonant and authoritative voice extended beyond news commentary into the realm of popular culture, further diversifying his impressive portfolio. He notably lent his distinctive narration skills to the animated film Horton Hears a Who!, released in 2008. This critically acclaimed movie was based on the beloved children's book of the same name by Dr. Seuss, and Osgood's warm, familiar voice perfectly captured the whimsical yet profound essence of the classic tale. Additionally, Osgood was also an accomplished author. In 2004, he published a poignant memoir titled Defending My Time: A Memoir of a Life in Media, offering readers an intimate look into his early life, his formative experiences, and his extensive and influential career in broadcasting, providing valuable insights into the evolution of media over decades.

Frequently Asked Questions about Charles Osgood

When did Charles Osgood host CBS News Sunday Morning?
Charles Osgood hosted CBS News Sunday Morning for over 22 years, specifically from April 10, 1994, until his retirement from the program on September 25, 2016.
What was The Osgood File?
The Osgood File was a highly popular and enduring series of daily radio commentaries hosted by Charles Osgood. Known for its concise, often poetic, and insightful observations on news and life, it ran from 1971 until December 29, 2017, making it one of the longest-running syndicated radio programs in history.
Did Charles Osgood narrate any films or voice characters?
Yes, Charles Osgood notably served as the narrator for the acclaimed animated film Horton Hears a Who!, which was released in 2008 and based on the classic Dr. Seuss book.
Did Charles Osgood write any books?
Yes, Charles Osgood was an author. He published a memoir titled Defending My Time: A Memoir of a Life in Media in 2004, which provided personal reflections on his life and extensive career in the broadcasting industry.