A potential shake-up at CBS News may see Gayle King, host of CBS Mornings, replaced by former Today Show anchor Hoda Kotb. Sources indicate that Bari Weiss, the newly appointed editor-in-chief for CBS News, is actively pursuing Kotb as a candidate to succeed King when her contract concludes in May 2026.
This development follows reports of declining ratings for CBS Mornings, prompting discussions about King’s future at the network. According to an insider speaking to RadarOnline, King’s position is under scrutiny due to the show’s performance against its competitors. “CBS is done accepting third place,” the source stated. “Bari wants a huge name who brings warmth, credibility – and viewers. And Hoda checks every box.”
Financial Implications and Ratings Concerns
King reportedly earns between $10 million and $15 million annually, a significant salary as CBS’s parent company, Paramount Global, prepares for major layoffs following its merger with Skydance. The insider elaborated, “People with big salaries and small ratings are going to be mercilessly cut – and Gayle fits the bill in both categories.”
In contrast, Kotb’s experience and public appeal are seen as assets that could revitalize CBS Mornings. A rival executive noted that if Kotb were to accept the position, “she’d be the star” without the need to share the spotlight, as she did with Savannah Guthrie on Today.
Kotb’s Career Moves and Future Prospects
Since retiring from Today in January, Kotb has remained active in the media landscape, including guest hosting the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Reports from NBC insiders indicate that Kotb was “desperate” to regain her position at Today after her wellness platform and app, Joy 101, did not meet expectations. One source remarked that she “realized that her real power is mornings” and that she “is the comfort America trusts with its coffee.”
Despite her long tenure at NBC, where she has spent nearly two decades, Kotb’s current contract is described by multiple insiders as “nowhere near ironclad.” This leaves the door open for a potential transition to CBS.
Both King and Kotb have publicly supported each other, with King appearing on Kotb’s last day at Today to present her with a gift. Nevertheless, the evolving landscape of television news and the challenges at CBS may soon lead to significant changes.
