Robert MacNeil

American journalist

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July 23, 2026

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Robert MacNeil was an American journalist best known for co-anchoring The MacNeil/Lehrer NewsHour on Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) with Jim Lehrer.12

MacNeil and Lehrer began their partnership in 1973, covering the Watergate scandal for PBS. This collaboration led to The Robert MacNeil Report in 1975, which evolved into The MacNeil/Lehrer Report and later The MacNeil/Lehrer NewsHour in 1983. This program was recognized for its in-depth reporting and commitment to serious journalism, often focusing on a single issue per broadcast. After MacNeil retired in 1995, the show was renamed The NewsHour with Jim Lehrer.12

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Jim Lehrer
In 1973 Lehrer paired with Robert MacNeil to provide live coverage of congressional hearings on the Watergate scandal for PBS. Their successful partnership was renewed when, in 1975, Lehrer became a correspondent for the Robert MacNeil Report on WNET in New York City. Lehrer’s role expanded, and the show was…
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In 1973 Lehrer paired with Robert MacNeil to provide live coverage of congressional hearings on the Watergate scandal for PBS. Their successful partnership was renewed when, in 1975, Lehrer became a correspondent for the Robert MacNeil Report on WNET in New York City. Lehrer’s role expanded, and the show was…
Read More