Morgan Freeman Replaces Walter Cronkite as Voice of CBS Evening News
Morgan Freeman, Walter Cronkite
Morgan Freeman has replaced the late Walter Cronkite in the CBS Evening News' nightly introduction of anchor Katie Couric.
The Oscar winner's introduction of Couric debuted Monday.
CBS anchor Walter Cronkite dies at 92
Though Cronkite died in July, CBS did not immediately retire his voiceover, which was recorded in 2006 when Couric took over the Evening News anchor chair.
"As comforting as it is to look back on the great career that Walter had, we're looking forward now and we just felt it was the right time to make the move that at some point had to be made," CBS News and Sports President Sean McManus told the Associated Press. "This seemed like the appropriate time since Walter's passing to make the move."
The change also gives the network flexibility to record different introductions for Couric for special reports or when she is on location, McManus said.
Watch videos of Freeman
Known for his authoritative voice, Freeman, 72, has provided narration for documentaries including 2005's March of the Penguins.