Insights from Gene Jankowski: A Journey Through Broadcast Journalism

Gene Janowski Reflects on a Life in Journalism Ahead of Memoir Release

Buffalo, NY — Gene Janowski, a towering figure in American broadcast journalism, is set to release his memoir, Behind the Eye: My Life in the Media, on September 18. Born in Buffalo on May 21, 1934, Janowski’s career spans 27 years at CBS, including 12 years as president during the network’s golden age.

In an exclusive interview, Janowski shared insights from his life and career, emphasizing the values instilled in him by his loving, albeit financially struggling, family. “My mother taught me that I could do anything if I set my mind to it,” he recalled. “And my parents believed that nobody owes you anything; you have to work for what you want.”

Janowski’s curiosity, sparked by early visits to the movies and the advent of television, propelled him into journalism. He reminisced about the innocence of early television, a stark contrast to today’s media landscape. “The impact of those early days on the American public can’t be repeated,” he noted.

During his tenure at CBS, Janowski worked alongside legendary journalists like Walter Cronkite and Dan Rather. He fondly recalled a sailing trip with Cronkite, describing him as a “terrific guy” with a good sense of humor. “He was an old pro, and I learned so much from him,” Janowski said.

Reflecting on the current state of journalism, he expressed concern over the polarization in media. “We need more journalists like Dan Rather,” he stated. “He was courageous and dedicated to getting the story right, without hyperbole.”

Janowski’s memoir also touches on personal loss. After the passing of his first wife, Sally, he put the book project on hold. “She was my partner in life and in this endeavor,” he shared. “It was only years later that I decided to resurrect the project, inspired by the stories we had begun to write together.”

As he prepares for the release of Behind the Eye, Janowski hopes to inspire a new generation of journalists to uphold the integrity and dedication that defined his career. “The future of journalism is in the hands of those who are willing to work hard and tell the truth,” he concluded.

With a career that has shaped the landscape of American media, Janowski’s memoir promises to be a compelling reflection on both his life and the evolving world of journalism.