Transformative Overhaul of CBS Evening News with New Anchors and Format

Revamping the CBS Evening News

The iconic “CBS Evening News,” one of the longest-running newscasts in American history, is on the brink of a transformative overhaul. This change signifies a shift away from the traditional model of a singular, dominant anchor reminiscent of Walter Cronkite, as the program embraces a more collaborative and modern approach.

In a significant development, just two days after Norah O’Donnell announced her departure from the anchor chair this fall, CBS News executives revealed that John Dickerson, the network’s esteemed lead political analyst and host of an evening CBS News streaming program, will be taking her place. He will be joined by Maurice DuBois, a seasoned anchor from the CBS affiliate in New York, enhancing the show’s dynamic.

In an unprecedented move, CBS has appointed Lonnie Quinn, a well-known local weatherman and colleague of DuBois at WCBS-TV, as the first-ever chief weathercaster for “Evening News.” This addition underscores the network’s commitment to delivering comprehensive coverage, with dedicated weather segments becoming a staple of the broadcast. Furthermore, veteran CBS journalists such as Jim Axelrod, Steve Hartman, and Margaret Brennan are expected to frequently contribute to the show, alongside other correspondents.

Both DuBois and Quinn will maintain their local roles, providing a unique continuity for viewers. The revamped format is poised to resemble aspects of a morning show or a local newscast, featuring a diverse cast and a focus on community engagement.

Despite the more conversational tone, CBS News executives assure that the program will uphold high journalistic standards. Bill Owens, the executive producer of the revered “60 Minutes,” will oversee the editorial direction of “Evening News,” ensuring that the integrity of the news remains intact. Additionally, Guy Campanile, a producer from “60 Minutes,” will take on the role of executive producer for the nightly show.

Wendy McMahon, the chief executive of CBS News, Stations, and CBS Media Ventures, expressed in a recent interview that this new leadership team embodies “the infusion of ‘60 Minutes’ mission and values into the ‘CBS Evening News’ nightly.” This evolution in leadership and format aims to resonate with audiences seeking both informative and engaging news coverage in today’s fast-paced media landscape.