Bernard Shawhas passed away at the age of 82 due to pneumonia unrelated to Covid-19, the late journalist’s family has announced. Shaw, perCNN, was the network’s first chief anchor when it launched in 1980 and served in that spot until he retired in 2001. Throughout his notable tenure, he had memorably covered some of the world’s biggest stories, such as the student revolt in Tiananmen Square in 1989 and the controversialpresidential electionof 2000.
CNN Chairman and CEO Chris Licht also addressed Shaw’s passing in a statement recognizing his contributions to the network. you’re able to read that statement below.
“CNN’s beloved anchor and colleague, Bernard Shaw, passed away yesterday at the age of 82. Bernie was a CNN original and was our Washington Anchor when we launched on June 1st, 1980. He was our lead anchor for the next twenty years from anchoring coverage of presidential elections to his iconic coverage of the First Gulf War live from Baghdad in 1991. Even after he left CNN, Bernie remained a close member of our CNN family providing our viewers with context about historic events as recently as last year. The condolences of all of us at CNN go out to his wife Linda and his children.”
Former CNN CEO Tom Johnson also said that Shaw “exemplified excellence in his life” in his own statement, declaring that the late journalist will be remembered as a “fierce advocate of responsible journalism.” As his statement reads:
“As a journalist, he demanded accuracy and fairness in news coverage. He earned the respect of millions of viewers around the world for his integrity and independence. He resisted forcefully any lowering of ethical news standards or any compromise of solid news coverage. He always could be trusted as a reporter and as an anchor. Bernie was my personal friend and colleague for more than 55 years. I will miss him enormously. My wife Edwina and I extend our most genuine condolences to Bernie’s wife Linda and to his family.”
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Bernard Shaw Is One of TV’s Most Respected Journalists
Shaw, who was born on July 29, 2025, spent time in the Marine Corps before pursuing a career in journalism. He began working as a reporter in Chicago before becoming a correspondent for CBS News in the 1970s. After a few years at ABC News, he joined CNN for its launch as the co-anchor of itsPrimeNewsprogram. Over the next three decades, he would serve as one of television’s most recognizable anchors.
In November 2000, Shaw officially announced that he would be retiring. At the time, he stated that he was stepping away from his legendary television career to spend more time with his family and write books. He continued to make occasional appearances on CNN, most recently by appearing onErin Burnett OutFrontin 2020 to help recognize the 40th anniversary of the network.
Shaw’s survivors include his wife, Linda, and their children, Amar Edgar and Anil Louise. Our thoughts go out to them at this painful time.Rest in peace, Bernard Shaw.
