Gayle King, the veteran co-host of CBS Thie Morning, has firmly pushed back against recent reports suggesting she's set to leave the show, calling the rumors "news to her" and emphasizing her commitment to the program.
In a candid interview with TMZ on Friday, the 70-year-old journalist said, "What I’m hearing in the building is not what I’m reading in the press," and added, "All I know is I am here. I am here and glad to be here." She expressed her love for the job and her colleagues, noting that CBS has reaffirmed their support: "All I’ve been told is they want me here."
#EXCLUSIVE 😳 Gayle King angrily addresses the reports that she's out at 'CBS Mornings' ... https://t.co/cBUQMzFQfH pic.twitter.com/4kxeEVpDSJ
— TMZ (@TMZ) October 31, 2025
The speculation began with a Variety exclusive published on October 30, 2025, which cited four sources claiming King is "expected to depart as an anchor of [CBS Mornings] next year" when her contract expires in May 2026. The report suggested she might transition to another role at CBS News, such as producing her own content, similar to former CBS Evening News anchor Norah O'Donnell's arrangement after stepping down earlier in 2025.
This comes amid broader turmoil at CBS following Paramount Global's $8 billion acquisition by Skydance Media in August 2025, which has led to layoffs (around 100 jobs), cancellations of streaming companion shows, and a push toward more "apolitical" content.
Recent exits include O'Donnell after 12 years and John Dickerson, one of her replacements, who announced his departure by year's end.
CBS quickly denied the story in a statement to multiple outlets: "There have been no discussions with Gayle about her contract that runs through May 2026. She’s a truly valued part of CBS and we look forward to engaging with her about the future."