CBS News has renewed the contract of its star anchor, Gayle King. This move comes despite significant budget cuts at the network and its parent company, Paramount Global.
Gayle King’s Value to CBS News
King, 69, co-hosts CBS Mornings. Her renewed contract underscores her importance to the network. CBS News leadership clearly values King’s contributions, even as the show faces rating challenges.
A source close to King told The Post, “Gayle genuinely cares about people. She’s the kind of person who would take a pay cut to protect jobs on her show.”
CBS News Facing Financial Challenges
Paramount Global, CBS’s parent company, is cutting $500 million from its budget. This comes ahead of a proposed merger with Skydance next year.
Despite these cuts, CBS has prioritized keeping King. Her reported $13 million salary may have been negotiated down. However, specific details remain undisclosed.
CBS Mornings’ Performance and Future Plans
CBS Mornings ranks third among morning shows. Yet, it’s gaining ground in the crucial 25 to 54 age demographic. The show has outperformed ABC’s Good Morning America 17 times this season in this key group.
CBS CEO Wendy McMahon plans to expand CBS Mornings to a third hour in some markets. A network source noted, “Locking down Gayle King solidifies a major part of CBS, which is the morning show.”
King’s Impact on Ratings and Content
King’s interviews with high-profile figures have boosted CBS Mornings’ momentum. She’s spoken with Jay-Z, Cherelle Griner, Megan Thee Stallion, and Kenneth Walker.
In the second quarter, CBS Mornings attracted 2.1 million total viewers. It had 426,000 viewers in the 25 to 54 demographic. This narrows the gap with competitors ABC and NBC.
Changes at CBS News
CBS News is undergoing changes beyond the morning show. Norah O’Donnell is stepping down as Evening News anchor after the presidential election. She’ll become a special correspondent.
John Dickerson and Maurice DuBois will co-anchor the revamped nightly news program. These choices are seen as more cost-effective for the network.
King’s Leadership and Influence
King’s contract renewal highlights her leadership in the industry. Her dedication to empowering Black women through interviews resonates with viewers.
