Winner 1999

Morning Edition with Bob Edwards

National Public Radio

Bob Edwards is no stranger to the Peabody podium, having been on hand in 1991 to accept a personal award on behalf of the late Walter “Red” Barber, whose advancing age and declining health kept the great sportscaster from taking one last road trip to New York. Mr. Edwards has moved from Fridays with Red to Mondays with Mr. Peabody, for today we recognize National Public Radio’s daily two hours of in-depth news and entertainment, expertly helmed by a man who embodies the essence of excellence in radio. Bob Edwards has hosted Morning Edition since its premiere in November 1979. His reassuring and authoritative voice is often the first many Americans hear each day. His is a rare radio voice: informed but never smug; intimate but never intrusive; opinionated but never dismissive. Mr. Edwards does not merely talk, he listens. More than simply report the news, Morning Edition provides the background that gives meaning and perspective to events. It is an agenda-setter, the morning program of choice for many of the nation’s business and political leaders. Special mention is made of executive producer Ellen McDonnell, director Barry Gordemer and a fine staff of producers, editors and reporters. Morning Edition with Bob Edwards enters its third decade poised to maintain its leadership position in American radio, and for this merits the Peabody Award.