Susan Stamberg, a pioneering journalist who became the first woman to anchor a national evening news program as a host of NPR’s “All Things Considered,” has died at the age of 87. Her death on October 16, 2025, marks the loss of a foundational figure in American public radio, celebrated for her conversational style and trailblazing career.
Stamberg passed away on Thursday, as confirmed by NPR and other reliable news outlets, though no cause of death was provided. An original staffer at National Public Radio, she joined in the early 1970s as the network was establishing itself, and her voice quickly became synonymous with its identity. Colleagues and listeners revered her as a “founding mother” of NPR, a title she embraced to highlight the contributions of women in broadcasting.
In 1972, Stamberg broke significant barriers by becoming the first woman in the United States to anchor a nightly national news program with “All Things Considered.” At a time when broadcast journalism was dominated by men, she faced initial skepticism and even complaints about her New York accent from some station managers. However, she persevered, with NPR’s first program director, Bill Siemering, encouraging her to “be herself,” which helped cultivate NPR’s distinctive, relatable sound.
Her career was defined by a wide-ranging curiosity and a commitment to humanizing news. Stamberg interviewed thousands of individuals, from presidents like Jimmy Carter to artists like Dave Brubeck, and even delved into everyday topics, such as famously sharing her mother-in-law’s cranberry relish recipe annually. She brought a unique blend of intelligence and warmth to her segments, whether exploring cultural issues or conducting playful experiments, like testing Wint-O-Green LifeSavers for sparks in the dark with a science correspondent.
Beyond her on-air work, Stamberg played a key role in developing NPR’s programming. She hosted “All Things Considered” for 14 years before moving to “Weekend Edition Sunday,” where she launched the beloved Sunday puzzle feature with Will Shortz. She also helped give a national platform to shows like “Car Talk” by featuring the Magliozzi brothers, demonstrating her knack for spotting engaging content. Her approach to journalism emphasized connection and storytelling, often focusing on arts and culture to enrich listeners’ understanding of the world.
Stamberg’s legacy includes numerous honors, such as induction into the National Radio Hall of Fame and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2020. After retiring in September 2025, she left behind a body of work that inspired generations of journalists, particularly women. She is survived by her son, Josh Stamberg, and granddaughters, Vivian and Lena, who remember her as a humanitarian dedicated to the power of journalism.
Her impact endures not only through her recordings but also in the ethos of NPR, where her voice still greets visitors in elevator announcements. Stamberg’s death prompts reflection on her role in reshaping broadcast media, fostering inclusivity, and proving that authenticity could thrive in news. As tributes pour in, her contributions continue to influence public radio and beyond, ensuring her place as an icon in American cultural history.