Broadcast icon Gayle King is reportedly preparing for an imminent exit from CBS Mornings as the show continues to suffer from dismal ratings, network shakeups, and dwindling executive support.
Sources familiar with the matter claim the 70-year-old cohost has been trying to orchestrate a smooth departure before CBS executives officially show her the door. King, who has served on the morning show for 13 years, is said to be aware that her hefty $10 million salary is increasingly difficult for the network to defend.
Network insiders say the end is near
One CBS insider revealed the network had been quietly searching for an “off-ramp” for King for some time, especially after the show’s ongoing struggle to climb out of third place in the competitive morning show rankings. The departure of CBS News president Wendy McMahon—King’s reported key ally—has only accelerated the process.
Insiders noted that McMahon was seen as King’s greatest champion within the organization. Now that she’s gone, so is King’s corporate safety net. One source described McMahon’s absence as a “death knell” for King’s tenure.
The network reportedly views King as a costly investment that no longer delivers results. A source said big celebrity exclusives rarely materialized on CBS Mornings, with stars continuing to favor rival shows like Today or Good Morning America.
Studio downgrade adds fuel to tensions
The show’s April ratings were the lowest since its 2021 relaunch. Following the decline, CBS Mornings will soon move from its flashy Times Square location back to the less prestigious CBS Broadcast Center in September—a move that has allegedly left King furious.
She reportedly views the downgrade as a personal slight and expects to maintain the same prestige she previously enjoyed. However, insiders say patience among CBS decision-makers has worn thin.
“She’s making too much for the numbers she’s bringing in,” said one network executive, who also confirmed that King already took a $3 million pay cut when she signed her most recent contract.
Although CBS will likely present her exit as a mutual decision, sources close to the network claim it’s more of a strategic push than a peaceful farewell.
Despite her long-standing tenure and reputation as a respected journalist, King’s future at CBS now appears to be on shaky ground. With internal confidence slipping and financial pressures mounting, many believe her final days on the show are already being quietly scripted.
Whether King lands another high-profile gig or steps back from morning television altogether remains to be seen. For now, what’s clear is that the network’s once-untouchable anchor is quickly running out of time—and allies.
Jaja has a degree in journalism and took classes in international law and business communication. Her career spans roles at prominent international media outlets, including International Business Times, Celebeat and Delightful Philippines. As a news editor, Jaja covered a wide range of beats, including legal, business, economy, cryptocurrency, personal finance, gaming, technology, and entertainment.