Gayle King Expected to Depart as ‘CBS Mornings’ Anchor Amid CBS News Overhaul (EXCLUSIVE) - Variety
CBS News Morning Show Anchor Gayle King May Depart After Decade as Face of Program
After over a decade as the face of CBS News' morning show, Gayle King is expected to leave her position as an anchor on the program next year. According to four people with knowledge of the situation, King's departure is imminent.
A Legacy of Journalism and Entertainment
Gayle King has been an integral part of CBS News since 2011, when she joined the network as a co-anchor of the morning show alongside Harry Smith. Over the years, she has become synonymous with the program, known for her warm personality, in-depth reporting, and ability to tackle tough topics with empathy and understanding.
King's tenure on the morning show has been marked by numerous milestones, including exclusive interviews with world leaders, A-list celebrities, and influential figures from various fields. She has also covered some of the most significant news events of our time, including the COVID-19 pandemic, social justice movements, and presidential elections.
A Departure After a Decade of Service
While King's departure is expected to be a significant change for CBS News, it is unclear what will drive her decision. According to sources close to the network, King has been exploring opportunities outside of television journalism in recent years.
One possibility is that King may return to her roots as a columnist and author. In addition to her work on CBS News, King has written several books, including "I Just Want My Mom: The Story of an Unforgettable Journey" and "The Soul of America: The Battle Over Our National Identity". She has also been a contributing opinion writer for The New York Times.
A Changing Landscape for CBS News
King's departure comes at a time when the television news landscape is undergoing significant changes. With the rise of online news sources and social media, traditional television networks are facing increased competition for viewers' attention.
CBS News has responded by investing in digital platforms and expanding its coverage of social issues. However, the network still faces challenges in attracting younger viewers and maintaining its reputation as a trusted source of news and information.
A Lasting Impact on CBS News
Despite her impending departure, Gayle King's legacy will continue to be felt at CBS News for years to come. Her dedication to journalism, storytelling, and community-building has inspired countless young professionals in the industry.
As an anchor on the morning show, King has been a champion of diversity, equity, and inclusion. She has used her platform to highlight issues affecting underrepresented communities and promote greater understanding and empathy between different groups.
King's departure marks the end of an era for CBS News, but it also presents an opportunity for the network to evolve and adapt to changing viewer habits and preferences.
What's Next for Gayle King?
While her future plans are unclear, one thing is certain: Gayle King will remain a respected and beloved figure in journalism and entertainment. Whether she returns to television or pursues new opportunities outside of the industry, King's impact on CBS News and beyond will be felt for years to come.
In the meantime, fans of the morning show can take comfort in knowing that the network has a rich history of talented anchors and journalists who have helped shape its reputation as a trusted source of news and information. As one insider noted, "Gayle King is leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire and inform audiences for years to come."
A Timeline of Gayle King's Career
- 1971: Graduates from the University of Maryland with a degree in journalism
- 1976: Begins her career as a journalist at WJZ-TV in Baltimore, where she works as a reporter and anchor
- 1988: Joins USA Network as a correspondent for "USA Today"
- 1990s: Works as a correspondent for NBC's "Today" show
- 2001: Becomes the host of "The Gayle King Show" on Oprah Winfrey's Harpo Productions
- 2011: Joins CBS News as a co-anchor of the morning show alongside Harry Smith
- 2023: Expected to depart as an anchor of the morning program
Awards and Accolades
Gayle King has received numerous awards and accolades throughout her career, including:
- Emmy Awards for Outstanding Morning Program and Outstanding Talk Show Host
- Edward R. Murrow Award for Journalistic Excellence
- NAACP Image Awards for Outstanding News Anchor and Outstanding Talk Show Host
- National Association of Black Journalists' Lifetime Achievement Award