CBS News is in urgent discussions to appoint Tony Dokoupil as the new anchor for “CBS Evening News” following an unexpected announcement from Maurice DuBois regarding his departure from the network. Sources indicate that the discussions have intensified in recent days, particularly after DuBois was informed by network executives that he was not considered “the future” of the evening news program. This communication prompted DuBois to publicly announce his exit on social media, which, according to insiders, deviated from the planned timeline for the announcement.
CBS president Tom Cibrowski has refuted claims that DuBois acted independently, asserting he had been in professional discussions with him leading up to the announcement. However, contrasting perspectives from inside the network suggest that DuBois’s early revelation about his leaving accelerated the search for a replacement, which had initially been slated for after the new year. With DuBois’s last day set for December 18, the urgency to secure a new anchor has increased, putting Dokoupil at the forefront of potential candidates.
Dokoupil is well-liked by key figures at CBS, including editor in chief Bari Weiss and Cibrowski, making him a strong contender for the role. The network is reportedly racing to finalize terms for Dokoupil’s new contract, with hopes of coming to an agreement before the year’s end. DuBois’s departure has left CBS in a position where they need to communicate a clear plan for the evening news, a staple of their programming.
The exit of DuBois also casts uncertainty over the morning show, “CBS Mornings,” where Dokoupil co-hosts alongside Gayle King and Nate Burleson. Changes in the morning program could follow if Dokoupil transitions to the evening slot, especially considering potential budgetary constraints. King’s lucrative contract has been a topic of discussion regarding her future at CBS, with speculation about whether adjustments might be made to retain her in light of any shifts in personnel.
While Weiss has explored other high-profile anchors for the evening position, such as Bret Baier and Dana Perino, those options are unlikely due to existing contractual obligations. This leaves Dokoupil, who is reported to have a lower salary compared to some of his co-hosts, as a more feasible option.
As rumors swirl and discussions continue, the next steps for CBS News remain unclear, particularly regarding the morning show’s future structure and personnel. The network appears to be navigating a complex situation, likened to a “game of chess,” where strategic moves and financial considerations will play a significant role in determining the next phase for both its evening and morning broadcasts.
