Harry Reasoner, American soldier and journalist (d. 1991)

Harry Truman Reasoner, a truly iconic figure in American broadcast journalism, was born on April 17, 1923, and his distinguished life concluded on August 6, 1991. Over a career spanning decades, Reasoner became a household name primarily through his impactful work with both CBS and ABC News. He wasn't merely a reporter; he was celebrated for his profound intellectual curiosity and, more notably, for his adroit and elegant use of language as a television commentator, a style that set him apart in a burgeoning media landscape. His legacy is perhaps most vividly remembered through his pivotal role as a co-founder of the remarkably enduring and influential newsmagazine program, 60 Minutes.

A Master of Language and Narrative

What truly defined Harry Reasoner's appeal was his distinctive narrative voice and his exceptional command of the English language. He possessed an almost unparalleled ability to distill complex issues into clear, concise, and often witty prose. His commentaries were characterized by a calm, reflective demeanor, often infused with a touch of wry humor and a deep understanding of human nature. This made his reports not just informative, but also deeply engaging and relatable for millions of viewers across the nation. His conversational yet sophisticated style contrasted sharply with more sensational approaches, establishing him as a trusted and thoughtful voice in an era of rapid change in television news.

The Birth of 60 Minutes

Among his many contributions to journalism, Reasoner's role in the creation of 60 Minutes stands as a towering achievement. Launched by CBS in 1968, he co-founded the groundbreaking newsmagazine alongside the formidable Mike Wallace. Reasoner was instrumental in shaping the program's innovative format, which masterfully blended in-depth investigative journalism, compelling interviews, and insightful profiles into a weekly hour-long broadcast. His composed and often reflective segments provided a vital counterbalance to Wallace's more aggressive and confrontational interviewing style, helping to forge a show that would redefine television journalism and establish a gold standard that continues to influence news programming today.

A Career Across Networks

Reasoner's career trajectory saw him move between some of the most prominent news desks in America. After making his mark at CBS, where he also famously co-anchored the CBS Evening News with Walter Cronkite and later solely, he made a notable move to ABC News in 1978. At ABC, he took on the role of co-anchor for ABC World News Tonight, further solidifying his reputation as a trusted voice in national news. However, the allure of his journalistic roots and the enduring success of the program he helped create eventually led him back to CBS in 1981, where he continued to contribute his distinctive voice to 60 Minutes until his retirement.

Accolades and Enduring Recognition

Throughout his illustrious and impactful career, Harry Reasoner's commitment to journalistic excellence and his singular talent were widely recognized. He was honored with three prestigious Emmy Awards, which celebrate outstanding achievement in television news and documentary, reflecting the high regard in which his work was held by his peers and the industry. Additionally, in 1967, he received the esteemed George Foster Peabody Award, one of the oldest and most respected awards in electronic media, recognizing distinguished achievement and meritorious public service. These accolades are a testament to his profound influence and his lasting contributions to the field of broadcast journalism.

FAQs About Harry Reasoner

Who was Harry Reasoner?

Harry Truman Reasoner was an influential American journalist and television commentator known for his long career with CBS and ABC News, his distinctive writing style, and his role as a co-founder of the renowned newsmagazine 60 Minutes.

What was Harry Reasoner most known for?

He was primarily known for his adroit use of language and engaging narrative style as a television commentator, as well as being one of the foundational figures of the groundbreaking CBS program 60 Minutes.

Which news programs did Harry Reasoner work on?

Reasoner worked extensively for CBS News, including anchoring the CBS Evening News and co-founding 60 Minutes. He also spent time at ABC News, where he co-anchored ABC World News Tonight.

Did Harry Reasoner win any awards?

Yes, Harry Reasoner was a recipient of three Emmy Awards for his contributions to television news and documentary, and he also received a prestigious George Foster Peabody Award in 1967.

What was Harry Reasoner's journalistic style like?

His style was characterized by an elegant and witty use of language, a calm and conversational delivery, and insightful commentary often infused with a touch of wry humor, making complex topics accessible and engaging for viewers.

Was Harry Reasoner one of the original anchors of 60 Minutes?

Yes, Harry Reasoner was a co-founder and one of the original correspondents for 60 Minutes when it launched in 1968, playing a crucial role in shaping its format and success.