CBS News Veteran Ed Bradley Dies of Leukemia At 65

I was caught offguard hearing about the passing today of longtime CBS News and "60 Minutes" correspondent Ed Bradley at 65 after battling leukemia. The man was a consummate newsman and the classiest of acts, an African-American who was quietly a news pioneer without ever calling attention to the fact. When CBS needed someone to interview Spike Lee or the Rev. Jesse Jackson, it was Bradley who got the assignment. But he was hardly a token black face in the network news world. He was a pro with a smooth delivery and well-honed instincts. You never got the feeling that Bradley was either mailing it in or tossing softballs.

But what I'll probably remember most about Bradley is the fact he was able to pull off wearing a shiny diamond earring stud -- alternated with a hoop -- better than any older dude I've ever seen. He was low-key and he was unflappable, but he was also uncommonly hip. Can you imagine Andy Rooney trying to wear an earring? How about Morley Safer? Not bloody likely. But on Bradley, it was a perfect fit.

He will be missed.

Comments

[OldOldLady Of The Hills]

A truly great Newscaster and a very classy man besides...The BEST interview I ever saw of the Fantastic Lena Horne...and it was his favorite interview, too!