The question how long is 60 minutes may seem simple, but for millions of Americans, it has an extra layer of meaning tied to one of the most iconic news programs on television. The CBS show 60 Minutes has been on the air since 1968, making it one of the longest-running and most trusted news magazine programs in history.
Most weeks, the program runs for exactly 60 minutes of airtime, which includes commercial breaks. However, on special occasions, it extends to 90 minutes, particularly when CBS adjusts its primetime schedule around NFL football broadcasts. Over the decades, the program’s consistent runtime, combined with its hard-hitting journalism, has made it a Sunday night institution.
Table of Contents
The Standard Runtime
The regular broadcast slot for 60 Minutes is one hour. This hour includes:
- Three in-depth investigative or feature reports.
- Brief transitions and anchor introductions.
- Commercial breaks inserted throughout the show.
While the total airtime is one hour, the actual journalism portion is slightly less than 60 minutes once advertisements are factored in. Still, the program’s format ensures viewers get multiple longform stories with enough depth to stand apart from other nightly news programs.
Extended Episodes: When 60 Minutes Becomes 90
The show is called 60 Minutes, but there are occasions when it stretches beyond the hour mark. Some episodes are extended to 90 minutes, especially during the fall and winter NFL season when CBS broadcasts doubleheader football games.
These extended editions give producers room to include:
- Up to five feature stories instead of the usual three.
- Longer interviews and in-depth follow-ups.
- Additional commentary or lighter features that balance heavier reports.
Though not a weekly occurrence, these extended shows are popular with viewers who enjoy more time devoted to investigative journalism.
Why Extensions Happen
The occasional longer runtime isn’t random. It typically happens for reasons such as:
- Sports scheduling: CBS needs to adjust primetime slots when NFL games run late.
- Special features: The network may decide to air more stories due to breaking news or a major investigative package.
- Audience demand: Viewers continue to support in-depth journalism, making extended episodes feasible for ratings.
How Long Is 60 Minutes Compared to Other Programs
To understand how long is 60 minutes in context, it helps to compare the show to other popular television news magazines:
| Show | Typical Runtime | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 60 Minutes | 60 minutes (sometimes 90) | In-depth investigative journalism |
| 20/20 (ABC) | 60 minutes | Focus on human interest and true crime |
| Dateline (NBC) | 60–120 minutes | Often extended for true crime specials |
| Inside Edition | 30 minutes | Shorter, fast-paced segments |
This comparison shows that 60 Minutes remains unique for consistently offering a one-hour news magazine format while occasionally expanding for special coverage.
History of the Hour-Long Format
When 60 Minutes launched in 1968, the idea of dedicating a full hour to news magazine-style journalism was groundbreaking. Most networks offered shorter news programs or nightly broadcasts that covered headlines quickly.
By devoting an entire hour to investigative reports, 60 Minutes carved out a niche that still resonates with audiences today. The famous stopwatch introduction reinforced the program’s commitment to using every minute wisely — a style that has endured for over five decades.
Viewer Experience
For most Americans, watching 60 Minutes is part of a Sunday evening routine. Knowing exactly how long the program will last helps viewers plan their night.
Here’s what audiences can expect in terms of runtime:
- A 60-minute block most Sundays.
- Commercials evenly spaced, bringing actual content to about 42–45 minutes.
- Occasional 90-minute specials with added segments.
- Streaming options that preserve the original broadcast length.
This predictability is part of why the show has remained popular for so long.
Why the Question Matters
The question how long is 60 minutes goes beyond math. While everyone knows 60 minutes equals one hour, the phrase also symbolizes consistency, trust, and longevity. The program has stuck to its one-hour structure for over half a century, even as television has shifted dramatically with the rise of streaming, shorter content, and social media.
For loyal viewers, the answer isn’t just about time. It’s about tradition — one hour of investigative journalism that can’t be replaced by shorter clips or soundbites.
Impact of Extended Episodes
When the program runs for 90 minutes, it often becomes a bigger event. These episodes allow more space for:
- Breaking news features.
- International reporting.
- Profiles of public figures or cultural icons.
Extended shows also tend to spark more conversation online, as audiences appreciate the chance to dive deeper into complex topics.
How Long Will 60 Minutes Continue to Run?
The show’s future remains strong. With a consistent format, high ratings, and a trusted brand, 60 Minutes is expected to continue its one-hour standard for years to come. Occasional extended episodes will remain part of the schedule whenever CBS programming requires it.
This balance between tradition and flexibility is what keeps the show relevant. Viewers know they’ll usually get one hour, but they’re happy to tune in for longer when special stories demand it.
Final Thoughts
So, how long is 60 minutes? The straightforward answer is one hour. But for millions of viewers, it’s much more than that. It’s an hour of storytelling, investigation, and reporting that has defined Sunday night television for more than 50 years. On special occasions, it expands to 90 minutes, offering even more journalism to audiences who value depth over speed.
Whether you’re a casual viewer or a longtime fan, the program’s runtime has become a reliable part of American television. What about you — do you prefer the standard one-hour episodes or the extended 90-minute specials? Share your thoughts below.