CBS News has secured a new contract with Gayle King, ending months of speculation about the future of the CBS Mornings co-host. The deal is seen as a significant win for the network's news division, led by editor-in-chief Bari Weiss.
King, a longtime fixture on the morning show, will continue in her role as co-host alongside former NFL star Nate Burleson. In a statement, she dismissed rumours of her departure, saying: 'Rumours of my demise were inaccurate and greatly exaggerated. CBS News is my longtime home, and I am committed to our mission.'
Weiss praised King as irreplaceable, stating: 'There is only one Gayle King. We’re so proud that she’ll continue to call CBS home.' The network also hinted at new projects that will expand King's reach beyond the morning show.
The contract renewal comes after a period of upheaval at CBS Mornings, which lost co-host Tony Dokoupil to the network's evening programme and has consistently ranked third behind NBC and ABC morning shows. CBS News president Tom Cibrowski said the network is 'excited to continue to evolve' the programme.
King, who reportedly earns $15 million annually, had been the subject of intense industry speculation. In a January town hall, she addressed the rumours, telling colleagues: 'People come and pet me like a puppy and say, “I’m so sorry that you’re leaving CBS.”' She also praised Weiss for engaging with staff.
