Full Breakdown
CBS News Appoints Tony Dokoupil as Anchor of CBS Evening News
12/10/2025, 12:45:03 AM
Major Shift in CBS Evening News Leadership
CBS News has selected Tony Dokoupil, currently a co-host of "CBS Mornings," to become the new anchor of "CBS Evening News." This decision comes amid significant changes at the network, including the departures of co-anchors Maurice DuBois and John Dickerson, who are both leaving by the end of December 2025. Dokoupil's appointment is expected to be officially announced shortly, with a start date set for the new year.
Background and Context
Dokoupil, 44, has been with CBS News since 2016 and has quickly risen through the ranks, co-hosting "CBS Mornings" alongside Gayle King and Nate Burleson since 2018. His promotion follows a tumultuous period for "CBS Evening News," which has seen a decline in viewership, losing approximately 1 million viewers during the tenure of DuBois and Dickerson. The network's leadership, under new editor-in-chief Bari Weiss, aims to revitalize the evening broadcast, which has struggled with ratings and programming direction.
Key Figures in the Transition
Bari Weiss, who became CBS News' editor-in-chief in October 2025, has been instrumental in the decision to appoint Dokoupil. Weiss has expressed interest in various candidates for the anchor role, including high-profile figures like Bret Baier and Anderson Cooper, but ultimately favored Dokoupil as the leading internal candidate. CBS News President Tom Cibrowski has also played a role in this transition, emphasizing the need for a fresh approach to the evening news format.
Criticism and Opposition
The changes at CBS News have not been without controversy. Insiders have criticized the previous leadership decisions, particularly the choice to replace Norah O'Donnell with two male co-anchors, which some sources described as misguided. There are concerns about the challenges Dokoupil will face in reversing the show's fortunes, as he steps into a role that has seen significant upheaval.
Official Statements & Responses
While CBS News has not yet officially confirmed Dokoupil's appointment, sources indicate that the network is preparing to overhaul its programming. A CBS spokesperson has not commented on the changes, but insiders suggest that the network is looking to enhance its evening news offerings to better compete in the ratings.
What's Next for CBS News
As CBS News navigates this transition, it is also expected to announce further changes, including the potential revamp of "CBS Mornings." The network is under pressure to implement cost-cutting measures following its merger with Skydance Media, which has mandated approximately $3 billion in reductions across the company. The upcoming town hall meeting on December 15, led by Weiss, is anticipated to outline her vision for the network and provide additional details on the changes.
Verbatim Quotes
- “He brings the audience along with him to whatever story he is covering, and he approaches his work with the qualities we look for in all our journalists.” — Bari Weiss, CBS News Editor-in-Chief
- “Wendy McMahon was so stupid. She thought two men could do a better job than a woman,” — CBS Source
The appointment of Tony Dokoupil as anchor of "CBS Evening News" marks a pivotal moment for CBS News as it seeks to redefine its evening broadcast amid ongoing challenges and changes within the organization.
