Dan Rather returns to CBS News after 18-year absence following bitter departure

Legendary newsman Dan Rather made a triumphant return to the CBS News airwaves after 18 years, appearing in a reflective interview on “CBS Sunday Morning” ahead of the debut of a Netflix documentary on his remarkable life.

Having spent 44 years at the network, with 24 of those years as the anchor of the “CBS Evening News,” Rather left under a cloud of controversy following a botched investigation into then-President George W. Bush’s military record. Despite the fallout, Rather expressed his deep connection to CBS, stating, “Without apology or explanation, I miss CBS. I’ve missed it since the day I left.”

The Netflix documentary, titled “Rather,” delves into his illustrious career, from covering President John F. Kennedy’s assassination to the Vietnam War and Watergate. It also sheds light on some of the more peculiar moments in Rather’s life, including an assault in New York City and an unexpected appearance on stage with the band R.E.M.

In the interview, Rather emphasized the importance of staying engaged in the ever-evolving media landscape, stating, “You either get engaged and you get engaged in the new terms … or you’re out of the game.” Despite his departure from CBS, Rather continued his journalistic pursuits, conducting investigative reporting and interviews for HDNet.

As he reflects on his legacy, Rather remains humble, acknowledging that in the end, it is family and friends that truly define one’s life. With his return to the spotlight, Dan Rather’s indelible mark on journalism continues to inspire a new generation of reporters.