CBS, commonly known as CBS Broadcasting Inc., is an American commercial broadcast television and radio network. It is the flagship property of the CBS Entertainment Group division of Paramount Global.
The company has a rich history dating back to its founding on September 18, 1927, by Arthur Judson and William S. Paley.
Over the years, CBS has undergone several name changes, including United Independent Broadcasters, Inc., Columbia Phonographic Broadcasting System, and CBS, Inc. Today, CBS is owned by Paramount Global and its parent company, CBS Entertainment Group.
Key Takeaways:
Page Contents
- CBS is an American commercial broadcast television and radio network.
- It is owned by Paramount Global and CBS Entertainment Group.
- CBS was founded in 1927 by Arthur Judson and William S. Paley.
- The company has undergone several name changes throughout its history.
- CBS remains a prominent player in the media and entertainment industry.
CBS Company Ownership
CBS is owned by Paramount Global, a multinational mass media conglomerate. Paramount Global serves as the parent company of CBS Entertainment Group, which oversees the operations of CBS Broadcasting Inc. As one of the leading media conglomerates, Paramount Global plays a vital role in shaping the entertainment industry. Under the CBS Entertainment Group, key executives hold influential positions. George Cheeks serves as the President and CEO, while Amy Reisenbach leads as the President of CBS Entertainment. Furthermore, Sean McManus holds the position of Chairman at CBS Sports, and Wendy McMahon leads as the President of CBS News and Stations.
With a strong leadership team in place, CBS continues to thrive as a prominent player in the media landscape, delivering quality programming and engaging audiences around the world.
CBS Company Founder
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CBS, one of the prominent players in the media and entertainment industry, owes its inception to Arthur Judson and William S. Paley. These visionary individuals joined forces in 1927 to establish the company, with Paley assuming the role of president. Judson, a talent agent, and Paley, the son of the owner of La Palina cigars, brought their unique backgrounds and expertise to create a foundation for success.
“Under Paley’s leadership, CBS experienced remarkable growth and became one of the largest radio networks in the United States. Paley’s strategic vision and relentless pursuit of quality paved the way for the network’s expansion into television in the 1940s.”
With Paley at the helm, CBS navigated the evolving landscape of the media industry and positioned itself as a leader in broadcasting. His entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to excellence set the stage for CBS’s enduring success in delivering captivating content to audiences across the nation. The legacy of Arthur Judson and William S. Paley as the founders of CBS remains an integral part of the company’s heritage and ongoing endeavors in the entertainment world.
Key Founder Details:
- Arthur Judson: Talent agent with a strong background in the entertainment industry.
- William S. Paley: Son of the owner of La Palina cigars, assumed the role of CBS president and played a crucial role in the network’s growth and expansion.
As CBS continues to evolve and innovate, the vision and contributions of its founders remain an integral part of its rich history and ongoing commitment to delivering quality programming to audiences worldwide.
CBS Company History
CBS, originally founded as a radio network in 1927, has a rich history that spans nearly a century. During its early years, CBS revolutionized the broadcasting landscape by introducing innovative programming and captivating audiences with popular radio shows.
In the 1940s, CBS ventured into the television industry, making significant contributions that shaped the future of entertainment. The network continued to push boundaries and deliver quality content, quickly becoming a household name.
“CBS has always been committed to providing groundbreaking programming that captivates and entertains audiences. We believe in pushing the boundaries of what is possible, and our history reflects our dedication to innovation and excellence in broadcasting.” – George Cheeks, President and CEO, CBS Entertainment Group
Throughout its history, CBS underwent several name changes, reflecting its growth and evolution. It started as United Independent Broadcasters, then became Columbia Phonographic Broadcasting System, and later transformed into Columbia Broadcasting System. Finally, in its current form, it became known as CBS, Inc.
The network’s ownership also experienced transformations over the years. CBS was acquired by Paramount Pictures, a major film studio, which added new dimensions to its operations. Subsequently, CBS was purchased by Westinghouse Electric Corporation before becoming part of Viacom in 2000.
In 2019, CBS split from Viacom and re-merged with the company to form ViacomCBS, marking another chapter in its storied history.
CBS Headquarters and Locations
CBS, one of the leading media conglomerates in the United States, has its headquarters situated at the CBS Building in Manhattan, New York City. This iconic location serves as the nerve center for the company’s operations and strategic decision-making. The CBS Broadcast Center, where the network produces and broadcasts its programming, is also located in New York City.
Aside from its headquarters, CBS has a significant presence on the West Coast, particularly in Los Angeles. The network has major production facilities in Los Angeles, including Television City and the CBS Studio Center. These state-of-the-art facilities provide the backdrop for the creation of some of CBS’s most popular television shows.
With a comprehensive network of television stations across the United States, CBS reaches audiences from coast to coast. The network boasts over 240 owned-and-operated and affiliated television stations, ensuring widespread coverage and access to CBS programming nationwide.
CBS Programming
CBS is known for its diverse range of programming that spans both television and radio. With 87+1?2 hours of regularly scheduled network programming each week, CBS offers a wide variety of shows and content to cater to different audiences.
On television, CBS delivers a mix of primetime shows, daytime programs, news broadcasts, sports coverage, and more. Some of the network’s most popular television shows include “CSI: Crime Scene Investigation,” “Survivor,” “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert,” and “60 Minutes.” These shows have captivated audiences with their compelling storytelling, engaging characters, and thought-provoking themes.
“CSI: Crime Scene Investigation” takes viewers into the world of forensic science as a team of investigators solves complex crimes. The show’s gripping storylines and meticulous attention to detail have made it a favorite among crime drama enthusiasts.
“Survivor” is a reality TV show that tests the physical and mental strength of its contestants as they compete for the title of sole survivor. The show’s strategic gameplay, intense challenges, and unexpected twists have made it a staple of reality television.
“The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” is a late-night talk show hosted by Stephen Colbert. Known for his wit, charm, and insightful interviews, Colbert entertains viewers with his monologues, celebrity guests, and memorable segments.
In addition to its television programming, CBS has a strong presence in the radio industry. Although the company sold its radio division in 2017 to Entercom, CBS has a legacy of delivering quality radio shows that have entertained and informed listeners over the years.
CBS company programming continues to set the bar high in terms of entertainment, innovation, and cultural impact. The network’s commitment to producing compelling and diverse content ensures that there is something for everyone to enjoy.
| Popular CBS Television Shows | Genre | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| “CSI: Crime Scene Investigation” | Crime Drama | 2000 – 2015 |
| “Survivor” | Reality TV | 2000 – Present |
| “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” | Talk Show | 2015 – Present |
| “60 Minutes” | News Magazine | 1968 – Present |
CBS Subsidiaries
CBS, as a prominent player in the media and entertainment industry, operates through various subsidiaries and divisions within its organizational structure. These entities contribute to the company’s overall operations, which encompass various aspects of the media and entertainment industry. Some key subsidiaries of CBS include:
- CBS Entertainment: The division responsible for developing, producing, and distributing television programming across various genres.
- CBS Cable Networks: The division that oversees the operation and management of CBS-owned cable television channels.
- CBS Publishing: The division responsible for publishing books and other written content under the CBS brand.
- CBS Local Media: The division that manages the company’s local television and radio stations across the United States.
- CBS Experiences: The division focused on creating immersive entertainment experiences, such as live events, exhibitions, and interactive shows.
- CBS Interactive: The digital division responsible for operating CBS’s online platforms, including websites, apps, and digital content distribution.
- CBS Records: The division that handles the production, distribution, and marketing of music recordings under the CBS label.
- CBS Sports Network: The division that provides sports coverage and programming on television and digital platforms.
- CBS Television Distribution: The division responsible for syndicating and distributing CBS-produced television programs to other networks and platforms.
- CBS Television Studios: The division focused on producing and developing television content for CBS and other networks.
- Showtime Networks: A division that operates premium television channels, offering original programming and exclusive content.
- Simon & Schuster: A publishing giant that is a subsidiary of CBS, known for publishing a wide range of books and authors.
- Digital assets of TV Guide: CBS acquired the digital assets of TV Guide, a popular television listing and entertainment news website.
These subsidiaries and divisions play a vital role in CBS’s extensive operations, contributing to the diverse range of media and entertainment offerings provided by the company. Together, they allow CBS to maintain a strong presence across various platforms and continue delivering engaging and high-quality content to audiences worldwide.
CBS Corporation Name Change
CBS Corporation, one of the leading media and entertainment companies, underwent a significant change in 2019. After operating as a separate entity for over a decade following its split from Viacom in 2005, CBS Corporation re-merged with Viacom, forming ViacomCBS.
This transformative merger brought together two powerhouses in the industry, enabling ViacomCBS to leverage the strengths and resources of both companies. As a result, ViacomCBS solidified its position as a dominant player in the media landscape, poised to deliver a wide range of compelling content across various platforms.
Following the merger, the company embarked on a rebranding initiative, transitioning from ViacomCBS to Paramount Global in 2022. This strategic name change emphasizes the brand’s global presence and highlights its diverse portfolio of assets, including television networks, film studios, and publishing divisions.
The name change reflects the company’s continued evolution and forward-thinking approach to meet the evolving demands of the media industry. By combining the legacy and expertise of CBS Corporation and Viacom, Paramount Global aims to captivate audiences worldwide with its engaging content and innovative storytelling.
CBS as a Media Conglomerate
CBS is a major American media conglomerate that operates in various sectors of the industry. As a leading broadcaster, CBS owns and operates television and radio stations, produces and distributes TV shows and films, publishes books and other written content, and provides online media services. The company’s subsidiaries and holdings encompass a wide range of brands and properties, including popular networks like CBS, Showtime, and The CW, as well as publishing giant Simon & Schuster.
At its core, CBS is recognized as a media powerhouse, with a diversified portfolio spanning multiple entertainment platforms. The company’s subsidiaries and holdings contribute to its comprehensive offerings and deep industry reach. CBS operates a vast network of television and radio stations, ensuring a broad audience and extensive content distribution. Additionally, the company’s role as a producer and distributor enables it to shape the media landscape and captivate audiences with its compelling shows and films.
One of the key subsidiaries of CBS is Showtime Networks, which operates the renowned premium television service Showtime. With hit shows like “Billions,” “Homeland,” and “Shameless,” Showtime has established itself as a prominent player in the cable and streaming market.
| Key Subsidiaries and Holdings | Description |
|---|---|
| Showtime Networks | Operates the premium television service Showtime |
| The CW | Operates as a joint venture with Warner Bros. Entertainment; known for popular shows like “Riverdale” and “The Flash” |
| Simon & Schuster | Major publishing company responsible for a wide range of books across various genres |
These are just a few examples of CBS’s subsidiaries and holdings, highlighting the company’s extensive presence in the media landscape. Through its various divisions and strategic partnerships, CBS continues to expand its influence and deliver captivating content to audiences around the world.
CBS in the Entertainment Industry
CBS plays a significant role in the entertainment industry, particularly in the realm of television. As one of the “Big Three” television networks in the United States, CBS has a long history of producing and distributing popular TV shows and influencing the cultural landscape.
The network has been associated with high-quality programming, innovative formats, and iconic shows that have shaped television history. From gripping dramas to hilarious comedies, CBS offers a diverse range of genres that cater to a wide audience. Whether you’re a fan of crime thrillers, reality TV competitions, or thought-provoking news programs, CBS has something for everyone.
CBS is a powerhouse in the television industry, known for its commitment to delivering captivating content that captivates viewers. The network has introduced groundbreaking shows that have become cultural phenomenons, such as “CSI: Crime Scene Investigation,” which revolutionized the crime procedural genre, and “Survivor,” the pioneer of reality TV competitions.
CBS has consistently pushed the boundaries of television, delivering innovative formats and captivating narratives that keep audiences hooked. With a strong roster of hit shows and a dedication to producing high-quality content, CBS continues to be a major player in the entertainment industry.
In addition to its successful television programming, CBS also has a strong presence in the sports world. The network is home to iconic sports programs like “The NFL on CBS” and “March Madness,” providing extensive coverage and analysis of major sporting events. CBS’s commitment to delivering live sports coverage has made it a go-to destination for sports fans across the country.
Throughout its history, CBS has been at the forefront of the television industry, constantly adapting to changing viewer preferences and technological advancements. With the rise of streaming platforms and digital media, CBS has expanded its reach to online platforms, offering viewers the ability to stream their favorite shows and access exclusive content on CBS All Access.
CBS Broadcasting Inc. Today
CBS Broadcasting Inc., now part of Paramount Global, is a leading player in the media and entertainment industry. With a strong focus on delivering captivating content, CBS continues to engage audiences through traditional broadcasting channels and digital platforms.
As a powerhouse in the industry, CBS operates an extensive network of owned-and-operated and affiliated television stations. This allows the company to reach a wide audience across the United States. CBS boasts a diverse range of TV shows, catering to various genres and interests, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Additionally, CBS maintains a strong presence in both radio and television, further solidifying its brand influence. By staying current with consumer preferences and market trends, CBS remains committed to providing high-quality programming that resonates with audiences.
In an ever-evolving landscape, CBS embraces innovation and the changing dynamics of media consumption. With a dedication to delivering compelling content, CBS Broadcasting Inc. is poised to continue engaging audiences across multiple platforms for years to come.
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