Bob Schieffer officially handed over the reigns to Katie Couric on tonight's edition of the CBS Evening News. In what could only be described as deeply touching and emotional, Schieffer thanked viewers for "Welcoming" him into their homes for the last 18 months.
I've watched many farewells and goodbyes during the course of my 32 years. This one, however, struck a sincere chord. For 18 months, Bob Schieffer single handedly saved CBS News. Yes, I said SAVED.
There was never any pressure for this 69 year old newsman. That much was admitted by Schieffer. He told USA Today there were "Zero Expectations" when he took over the anchor chair after Dan Rather's unceremoneous exit in March 2005.
And, CBS again continued to take parting shots at Dan "The Man" during Schieffer's last broadcast. Among the noted highlights of how Schieffer is more respected around Black Rock:
- In Katie Couric's first piece at CBS -- a retrospective on Schieffer's career -- Couric made mention of Schieffer taking over the anchor chair during CBS News' "darkest hour." She even mentioned the 'memogate' scandal and Rather in the same breath.
- Les Moonves showed up at the end of the broadcast along with Evening News Executive Producer Rome Hartman to shake Schieffer's hand and pat him on the shoulder.
- The usual "Wal-Mart" closing tag was -not- played. Instead -- an extended mix of the CBS Evening News theme was played to show the well wishes from all in attendance (CBS didn't blow the retail giant's advertising dollars off on his final broadcast.)
Beyond the feeling that CBS News has indeed redeemed itself, and is turning a corner next week is the realization of just how genuine Bob Schieffer is. He's like an old sweater -- the one that you just never can part with or get rid of. You know -- the one you keep bringing out every winter because it's cozy and warm.
Schieffer added over 630,000 viewers this week over last year alone. Part of that is probably because those people watching at home felt the ease and gentlemanly nature come through. He's not Peter, Tom, or Dan. He's the good-ole Texas reporter that really cared about getting the story on the air, and didn't take himself too seriously in the process.
I'm not one of these people who believes emotion is a grand thing for broadcasters. Rather used it to his detriment on one too many occassions. One of the most moving moments in Couric's tribute, however, came when Schieffer described how others have made him who he is. "I don't believe in this being your own man business. My mother -- my wife -- my daughters -- they all made me who I am and are responsible for where I am today." Schieffer said as he choked back tears.
And ... they were the real kind. Not the fake, "Turn the camera toward me" tears that Rather used to display. Don't get me wrong -- I like Rather. In the end, however, the news became about him rather than anchored by him.
Now, the genuine, loveable gentleman is headed back to Washington. I feel like those of us who watch CBS News owe Bob Schieffer a hearty "Thank you." He restored our faith in the hallowed halls once graced by Edward R. Murrow.
In his closing comments tonight, Schieffer did thank viewers for welcoming him into their homes, and then welcoming him again -- an obvious reference to the increased viewership. No, Bob -- you shouldn't thank us. We thank you for coming into our homes.
Randy Gupton, fivesecondstoair.blogspot.com
