CBS News’ flagship programs are slipping in the ratings, raising fresh concerns about the network’s direction under editor-in-chief Bari Weiss just six months into her tenure.
Early Nielsen data shows both CBS Evening News and CBS Mornings trending toward new lows. “Evening News” is on pace for its weakest performance since October in both total viewers and the key 25–54 demographic, while “CBS Mornings” is also heading for its lowest total audience since October after a steady first-quarter decline.
“Evening News,” a centerpiece of Weiss’ strategy, has become a key indicator of her impact reports The Wrap. She led a major overhaul of the broadcast, bringing in Tony Dokoupil from the morning show and investing heavily in changes aimed at boosting viewership.
So far, the results have been disappointing. The program is averaging about 4.1 million viewers in March, with roughly 508,000 in the 25–54 demo — down from January (4.39 million/588,000) and February (4.4 million/544,000). During the week ending March 13, the broadcast dipped below 4 million viewers for the first time in months, though it rebounded slightly the following week.
The ratings decline comes amid criticism of the show’s editorial direction, including scrutiny of Dokoupil’s coverage of the Trump administration, and broader questions about the network’s attempt to attract more centrist viewers.
The strategy is closely tied to David Ellison, CEO of Paramount Global, who backed Weiss’ appointment after acquiring her media outlet, The Free Press, in a $150 million deal. Since then, CBS News has faced internal turmoil, including layoffs, staff departures and criticism over a perceived shift in editorial tone.
Longer-term uncertainty also looms. With Paramount’s planned acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery, questions are growing about whether Weiss’ influence could extend further — potentially impacting assets like CNN — adding another layer of concern inside the broader television news industry.