Cronkite Unbound

Does Walter Cronkite nurse a grudge against his controversial successor, Dan Rather? In the past, the retired CBS anchorman was mostly mum on the subject. Now Cronkite, who has been relegated to an infinitesimal on-air role since he stepped down in 1981, let slip some frank criticism at a Manhattan gathering last week. When asked about his network's coverage of the Persian Gulf crisis, during which Rather landed an exclusive interview with Saddam Hussein, Cronkite acidly observed that Saddam "saved Rather's skin." While conceding that the younger man is a good reporter, Cronkite believes Rather has "blown it" as an anchor....

Want the full story?

Subscribe Now

Subscribe
Subscribe

Learn more about the benefits of being a TIME subscriber

If you are already a subscriber sign up — registration is free!