Dan Rather Reflects on CBS Departure in Rare Interview with CBS News

Renowned journalist Dan Rather made a rare appearance on CBS News, marking his first return to the network since his departure 18 years ago. In an introspective interview on ‘CBS Sunday Morning,’ Rather candidly reflected on his exit from the network that had been synonymous with his name for over four decades.

Having spent 44 years at CBS, including a notable stint as the anchor of the ‘CBS Evening News’ for 24 years, Rather parted ways with the network following a controversial report on then-President George W. Bush‘s military record. The fallout from the investigation led to Rather’s exit from CBS, enveloped in tensions with then-CBS chief Leslie Moonves.

Speaking to correspondent Lee Cowan, Rather expressed his lingering sentiments about CBS, stating, ‘Without apology or explanation, I miss CBS. I’ve missed it since the day I left.’ The interview comes just days before the premiere of a Netflix documentary titled ‘Rather,’ offering an intimate look at the 92-year-old newsman’s life and career.

The contentious episode that precipitated Rather’s departure was a report questioning President George W. Bush’s service during the Vietnam War era, which ultimately tarnished Rather’s legacy at the network. While the authenticity of certain documents used in the report came under scrutiny, many involved in the story maintain the veracity of its claims.

After leaving CBS, Rather continued his journalistic pursuits, engaging in investigative reporting and conducting high-profile interviews for HDNet. Embracing the digital age, Rather also became a prominent figure on social media, offering insightful commentary on current events and political developments.

Throughout the interview, Rather emphasized his determination to stay relevant in the evolving media landscape, noting, ‘You either get engaged and you get engaged in the new terms…or you’re out of the game. And I wanted to stay in the game.’

The upcoming Netflix documentary promises a comprehensive exploration of Rather’s extensive career, spanning from his coverage of President John F. Kennedy’s assassination and the Vietnam War to his tenure as a respected news anchor. The film delves into both the professional milestones and personal anecdotes that have shaped Rather’s enduring legacy.

On the topic of legacy, Rather downplayed his professional achievements, highlighting the importance of personal connections and contributions. He remarked, ‘In the end, whatever remains of one’s life—family, friends—those are going to be the things for which you’re remembered.’