After more than a decade as one of the most recognisable faces on morning television, Gayle King is reportedly preparing to leave CBS Mornings.
According to reports from Variety, her exit comes as CBS News faces a major overhaul following Paramount’s merger with Skydance Media.
King, whose contract expires in May 2026, has anchored the network’s morning program since January 2012.
During that time, she became a defining presence on the show, known for her calm yet firm interviewing style. CBS executives are said to be exploring ways for King to remain within the network, possibly in a production or contributor role rather than as a daily anchor.
The potential move comes amid sweeping changes across CBS News. Parent company Paramount Global, now owned by the Ellison family through Skydance Media, has introduced a series of cost-cutting measures that have affected several divisions.
This includes staff reductions and the cancellation of companion shows such as CBS Mornings Plus and CBS Evening News Plus.
Earlier this month, CBS also confirmed that its Saturday Morning team, including anchors Dana Jacobson, Michelle Miller, and executive producer Brian Applegate, will depart as part of the restructuring.
A CBS News spokesperson told Variety that there have been “no discussions with Gayle about her contract that runs through May 2026,” adding that she remains “a truly valued part of CBS.”
King’s attorney did not respond to requests for comment .
King joined CBS News in late 2011, moving from her work in magazine media and television production, including co-running Oprah Winfrey’s O, The Oprah Magazine.
Her long-standing friendship with Winfrey has often been credited with bringing warmth and authenticity to her on-screen persona.
Over her 14-year run, King became known for several headline-making interviews. Her 2019 sit-down with R. Kelly, during which she maintained composure as the singer raised his voice and denied abuse allegations, earned widespread praise for her professionalism.
More recently, she joined a Blue Origin flight alongside a group of female public figures including singer Katy Perry and pilot Lauren Sánchez.
CBS News’ leadership change has been led by new editor-in-chief Bari Weiss, formerly of The Free Press, whose appointment marks a shift in editorial tone for the network.
The restructuring also follows the announcement that The Late Show with Stephen Colbert will end in May 2026, adding to speculation about the network’s broader programming strategy.
Industry observers say King’s departure would represent a major shift in CBS’s morning lineup.
If confirmed, King’s exit would close a 14-year chapter in CBS’s morning television history. The network is expected to make an announcement about her future before the end of the year.
