• Biography

Morley Safer was an iconic Canadian-American journalist and television correspondent who was best known for his long-running tenure on the CBS newsmagazine 60 Minutes. He was born in Toronto, Canada on November 8, 1931, to a Jewish family. He attended Harbord Collegiate Institute and the University of Toronto, where he earned a degree in philosophy.

Early Career

Safer began his career in journalism in 1957, when he joined the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) as a reporter. He quickly rose through the ranks and became a foreign correspondent for the CBC in 1962. During his time at the CBC, Safer reported from numerous countries, including Vietnam, where he covered the war for the CBC.

In 1965, Safer joined CBS News as a London-based correspondent. He was soon promoted to the network's New York bureau, where he covered a variety of stories, including the civil rights movement and the Vietnam War. In 1968, Safer was sent to Saigon to cover the Tet Offensive, and his reports from the front lines earned him a Peabody Award.

60 Minutes

In 1970, Safer joined the newly-launched newsmagazine 60 Minutes as a correspondent. He quickly became one of the show's most recognizable faces, and his reports were known for their in-depth reporting and thoughtful analysis. During his time on the show, Safer covered a wide range of topics, from politics and culture to business and science. He also conducted a number of memorable interviews, including a 1977 interview with then-First Lady Betty Ford.

Safer remained with 60 Minutes until his retirement in 2016. During his 46-year tenure, he won numerous awards, including 12 Emmys and three Peabody Awards. He was also inducted into the Television Hall of Fame in 2003.

Legacy

Safer's legacy as a journalist is undeniable. He was known for his thoughtful and thorough reporting, and his work on 60 Minutes helped to shape the newsmagazine format. He was also a passionate advocate for press freedom, and his reporting from Vietnam helped to bring the horrors of war to the public's attention.

Safer passed away on May 19, 2016, at the age of 84. He is remembered as one of the most influential journalists of his generation, and his legacy will continue to live on through his work.

Date modified: Apr 4, 2023
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