CBS News is saying goodbye to “48 Hours” correspondent Richard Schlesinger, who will be retiring on Friday, June 17th. The program’s executive producer Judy Tygard broke the news to staff via an internal memo.
“Whenever I struggle to write something hard, I always think, how would Richard Schlesinger say it? But this time, the lump in my throat is so big it’s blocking my thoughts, so I’ll just come out with it: Our beloved Richard is retiring,” Tygard said, per TV Newser.
“We’re parting with a brilliant writer, a superb interviewer, a top journalist, and a close friend. … 48 Hours will never be the same without you, Richard.”
Schlesinger’s retirement announcement comes a year after he went into cardiac arrest while out for a walk near his home in Connecticut with his quick-thinking neighbors saving his life.
“I now know that the expression ‘Time flies when you’re having fun’ can actually be true,” said Schlesinger. “The past 38-plus years have flown by, propelled by great stories and great colleagues and a great organization. I am a very lucky man.”
Schlesinger joined CBS News in 1984 as a reporter in the network’s Miami bureau, covering stories throughout the south and Latin America. In addition, he’s served as a reporter for the CBS Evening News and periodically anchored its morning show and the CBS Weekend News.
“Richard Schlesinger is the epitome of a CBS News journalist,” said CBS News boss Neeraj Khemlani. “He’s a great writer. He’s a terrific interviewer. He knows how to tell a story that keeps you on the edge of your seat.
“For nearly four decades, Richard has had an impact on our audiences. He’s also left an indelible impression on the journalists who followed him. Though he’s retiring, we know his influence will be felt here for years to come.”
Eduardo Razo is the Assistant Content Editor for BNM, which includes writing daily news stories on the news media industry. He can be found on Twitter @eddierazo_ or you can reach him by email at eddie1991razo@gmail.com.
