CBS News finds itself in a challenging position as it grapples with rumors and speculation amidst ongoing division-wide layoffs. The recent corporate changes within the network have added to the anxiety among staff and viewers alike. While many of the changes being reported have not yet come to fruition — and may never happen — the constant stream of stories contributes to an atmosphere of uncertainty and unease.
The latest wave of speculation revolves around Gayle King, with Variety reporting that she is “expected to depart” her long-standing role on “CBS Mornings” next year. Despite the swirling rumors, King has not publicly commented on her future, and her current contract is set to expire in six months. This has placed the CBS News management team in a difficult position, as they attempt to manage the narrative and control potential backlash from viewers.
The turmoil at CBS News can be traced back to the recent leadership changes initiated by David Ellison, who took the reins at Paramount and appointed Bari Weiss as the new editor-in-chief of CBS News. Weiss, known for her entrepreneurial spirit and strong opinions, has sparked considerable interest among media circles, prompting speculation about her vision for the future of the news division. Although she has only been in her position for a few weeks, reports indicate that Weiss is frustrated by persistent leaks regarding her plans.
As Weiss begins her tenure, the media is abuzz with speculation about potential staffing changes at iconic programs like “60 Minutes” and “CBS Evening News.” This speculation is creating instability within the news division. A CBS source remarked, “You know the old adage: Nobody knows anything,” emphasizing the detrimental effects of rampant speculation on morale.
Earlier this week, CBS News laid off approximately one hundred employees, a move that had been anticipated for months prior to Weiss’s hiring. These layoffs have further intensified the atmosphere of uncertainty within the organization and have left many employees on edge.
The weekday morning show has undergone numerous changes over the past decade, with King consistently serving as a central figure. Recent reports from Variety suggest that King might transition to a different role within the news division, possibly producing her own programming. The article noted that “negotiations are about to ensue,” leading to questions among CBS staff about the validity of the rumors surrounding King’s departure.
As CBS has been working to reduce salary costs across the board, it is likely that the network would seek to encourage King to accept a pay cut if she wishes to remain with the company in any capacity. In response to the Variety article, CBS firmly stated that “there have been no discussions with Gayle about her contract that runs through May 2026.” This unusual public acknowledgment of a star’s contract status indicates that negotiations have not yet commenced.
Changing King’s role could be a risky decision for CBS, particularly as morning television relies heavily on the relationships that viewers develop with their hosts. The network’s statement underscored King’s value, expressing eagerness to engage with her about her future. Additionally, her co-host, Nate Burleson, shared his sentiments on Instagram, reflecting the weight of uncertainty that hangs over the network. “I hope this rumor doesn’t hold up,” he wrote, emphasizing King’s significance as “a fixture, a force, and a part of the fabric of ‘CBS Mornings.’”
As CBS News navigates these turbulent waters, it remains to be seen what the future holds for its talented team and celebrated programs.
