CBS Philadelphia’s Jim Donovan to Retire After 2 Decades on the Air

After more than two decades of service to CBS Philadelphia and a career spanning close to 40 years in broadcasting, Jim Donovan, anchor of CBS News Philadelphia's morning and noon newscasts, has announced his retirement. His final broadcast will be on Friday, Dec. 19.

A 15-time Emmy Award-winning journalist, Donovan joined CBS Philadelphia in 2004. He served as its "On Your Side" consumer reporter. In 2016, he moved to the anchor chair for the morning newscast, helping relaunch the program. His coverage of Pope Francis's 2015 visit to Philadelphia remains one of his most enduring contributions to the CBS Philadelphia team.

"Jim Donovan is a Philadelphia institution," Kelly Frank, president and general manager of CBS Philadelphia, said in a statement. "His passion for advocacy, his commitment to our viewers, and his ability to connect with the community have made him a trusted voice in homes across the region. We are grateful for his leadership, his heart, and the legacy he leaves behind."

"I've had the privilege of living my dream every single day," Donovan reflected. "From the newsroom to the anchor desk, and from the streets of Philadelphia to 55 countries around the world, I've been blessed with a career that's been both meaningful and joyful. I'm grateful to my CBS Philadelphia family and to the viewers who welcomed me into their homes each morning."

According to CBS Philadelphia, Donovan began his work in broadcasting as an intern at WWOR-TV in New Jersey. He built a diverse career with stints at CNBC, WGHP in North Carolina, and WBNS in Ohio before joining CBS Philadelphia in 2004.

CBS Philadelphia is planning tributes to Donovan's career during his final week on the air, Dec. 15–19.