Gayle King Reportedly Planning Exit From “CBS Mornings” in 2026 Amid Network Shake-Up
Written by b87fm on 10/31/2025
After more than a decade at the CBS Mornings anchor desk, Gayle King is reportedly preparing to step down when her contract ends in May 2026.
According to industry insiders, the veteran journalist may transition into a new role within CBS News — possibly developing her own program. The network, however, insists no decisions have been finalized.
“There have been no discussions with Gayle about her contract that runs through May 2026,” a CBS News spokesperson said. “She’s a truly valued part of CBS and we look forward to engaging with her about the future.”
King, 70, joined CBS This Morning in 2011, helping shape it into a credible competitor in the morning news space. When the show rebranded as CBS Mornings in 2021, she continued to anchor alongside Tony Dokoupil and Nate Burleson, bringing her signature warmth and sharp interviewing style to viewers each morning.
The timing of the reports coincides with a major restructuring at CBS, which includes leadership changes and cost-cutting tied to Skydance Media’s acquisition of Paramount Global, CBS’s parent company.
While her departure from the anchor chair appears likely, sources say King’s relationship with the network could evolve rather than end. She’s reportedly exploring opportunities to produce content or host a standalone project under the CBS umbrella.
The shake-up also comes as CBS News reevaluates its morning programming strategy — recently moving out of its high-profile Times Square studio to a smaller space as part of ongoing cost-saving efforts. Despite her program’s steady audience, CBS Mornings continues to trail behind Good Morning America and Today in ratings.
Insiders believe King will continue anchoring through at least the 2026 U.S. election cycle, with one source noting, “It’s a very useful platform for Gayle… she would certainly want to continue through the midterm elections.”
Renowned for her poise during high-pressure interviews and her ability to bring humanity to hard news, King has become one of the most respected figures in broadcast journalism. Her potential move marks the end of an era — but possibly the start of another for both King and CBS.
