Full Breakdown
Norah O'Donnell's Potential Return to CBS Mornings Sparks Speculation
2/18/2026, 2:54:38 AM
CBS Mornings Faces Overhaul Amid Ratings Struggles
Norah O'Donnell is set to host "CBS Mornings" for three days next week, igniting speculation about her potential return to the morning show after a seven-year absence. O'Donnell, who previously co-hosted the program—then known as "CBS This Morning"—with Gayle King and Charlie Rose, will appear on the show while promoting her new book, "We the Women: The Hidden Heroes Who Shaped America." This return comes at a time when CBS is reportedly considering significant changes to revitalize the struggling morning program, which has seen its ratings decline to approximately 1.8 million viewers.
Background on CBS Mornings' Declining Ratings
The ratings for "CBS Mornings" peaked in February 2016, reaching nearly 4 million viewers, but have since plummeted following the departure of key figures. Charlie Rose was ousted in 2017 due to sexual harassment allegations, and O'Donnell left the morning show in 2019 to anchor "CBS Evening News." The program's recent struggles have been attributed to various factors, including a perceived shift towards "woke" programming that may not resonate with broader audiences.
Key Figures in the CBS Mornings Shake-up
O'Donnell's return is seen as part of a broader strategy by CBS News President Tom Cibrowski and Editor-in-Chief Bari Weiss to rejuvenate the morning show. Sources indicate that O'Donnell's past success with King and Rose has prompted discussions about her potential reinstatement. However, a CBS insider has downplayed the likelihood of her returning permanently, suggesting her hosting stint may simply be a temporary measure to assess viewer response.
Financial Considerations for Co-Hosts
The financial dynamics among the current co-hosts are also under scrutiny. Gayle King's salary, estimated between $13 million and $15 million, has been deemed excessive, leading to speculation that she may be reassigned to a lower-paid role or face a pay cut. Nate Burleson, another co-host, is also rumored to be at risk amid the impending changes.
Official Statements & Responses
CBS News has not publicly commented on the specifics of O'Donnell's return or the future of "CBS Mornings." However, insiders suggest that the network is actively exploring options to enhance the program's appeal and ratings.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics of the current direction of "CBS Mornings" have pointed to its programming choices as a factor in its declining viewership. Some believe that the show's focus on topics appealing to coastal audiences has alienated viewers in middle America, contributing to its struggles in the competitive morning news landscape.
What's Next for CBS Mornings
As O'Donnell embarks on her book tour, her brief return to "CBS Mornings" may serve as a litmus test for the network's future direction. The outcome of this experiment could influence CBS's decisions regarding its morning lineup and the potential reshuffling of its co-hosts.
