CBS clarifies Gayle King's 'future' after reports claimed she was leaving morning news show
MANHATTAN, NEW YORK: Gayle King, the longtime co-anchor of 'CBS Mornings', is expected to step away from the show next year, as per Variety. Her possible exit comes as CBS undergoes major changes under its new Editor-in-Chief, Bari Weiss.
King’s departure would mark one of several shake-ups at the network as it adjusts to new leadership, news ethics and direction. Her spokesperson has not yet commented.
While King might step away from the anchor desk, she could still stay on with CBS in a new role.
Gayle King expected to leave 'CBS Mornings'
Gayle King has long been admired for her engaging and warm presence on 'CBS Mornings'. With her contract set to expire in 2026.
"There have been no discussions with Gayle about her contract that runs through May 2026. She's a truly valued part of CBS and we look forward to engaging with her about the future," the network said. According to insiders, King might transition into a “different role” within CBS News and could “potentially produce her own programming” for the network.
In terms of ratings, 'CBS Mornings' continues to lag behind its rivals, ranking third among the major morning shows. The program drew an average of 1.8 million viewers during the week ending October 20. Amid the dip in viewership, news of King’s possible departure has still caught many by surprise.
King has been a familiar face on 'CBS Mornings' for over a decade. She joined 'CBS This Morning' in November 2011 and, over her 14-year run, has co-anchored alongside several hosts, including Charlie Rose and Norah O’Donnell.
After Rose’s exit in 2017 following allegations of harassment, King continued alongside Anthony Mason and Tony Dokoupil from May 2019. The on-screen partnership continued until Mason’s departure in August 2021. Since then, she and Dokoupil have been joined by Nate Burleson, who came on board in September 2021.
What did CBS say about Gayle King’s reported exit?
CBS News has dismissed recent reports suggesting that Gayle King plans to leave her role as co-anchor of 'CBS Mornings', calling the speculation “premature.” The network clarified that her contract remains active and no official announcement has been made about her departure.
The statement follows media speculation that King could step down in 2026. CBS that she remains a central figure in the morning lineup, as per People.
Is CBS’s news ethics and newsroom strategy related to Donald Trump?
The recent changes at CBS are not directly connected to Donald Trump, though his name has been mentioned in discussions. CBS's new editorial head, Bari Weiss, has spoken openly about her past views on Trump.
She said, “I’m the first to admit that I was a sufferer of what conservatives at the time would have called TDS, Trump Derangement Syndrome,” sharing that she had cried when he was first elected in 2016.
Now under Skydance CEO David Ellison, the network is keen to make changes aimed at creating more balanced coverage. Some outlets have labeled this change a “Trump takeover,” not because the president is directly involved but because the network’s evolving approach appears more receptive to conservative viewpoints and a broader audience.
This particular shake-up has already led to major exits. 'The Late Show with Stephen Colbert' will end in May 2026, and 'CBS Evening' News' anchor John Dickerson announced his departure on Tuesday, October 28, after 16 years.
