CBS Mornings Faces Major Change as Tony Dokoupil Moves to Evening News

CBS Mornings is entering a new phase after Tony Dokoupil left the show to anchor CBS Evening News. The move takes effect in early December 2025. CBS is now searching for a new co-host to fill his seat. The shift comes as the show posts fresh gains in viewers and in the key 25-54 age group.

According to Reuters and other trusted outlets, CBS Mornings is the only major morning show to rise in both ratings measures this month. The show gained momentum at a time when CBS News is also reshaping its leadership and strategy.

CBS Mornings Ratings Rise During Search for New Co-Host

The show reached about 2.076 million viewers in early December. This is a 6 percent rise from the week before. It also reached about 363,000 viewers in the 25-54 demo. That demo, key for advertisers, grew by 13 percent.

Reuters reports that Good Morning America stayed ahead in total viewers. It drew 2.893 million. NBC’s Today followed with 2.860 million. CBS Mornings stayed in third place but saw the only week-to-week growth.

Gayle King and Nate Burleson remain on the show. King said she plans to stay. She shared those comments during a recent appearance on Sherri. Her remarks add a sense of stability as CBS plans its next move.

The open seat left by Tony Dokoupil is a major choice for CBS. The network wants someone who can keep the show’s tone steady. It also wants to build on its new ratings momentum. No official name has been announced for the role.

What the Change Means for CBS and Viewers

The move comes after Tony Dokoupil was promoted to anchor CBS Evening News. This is a major position inside the network. CBS has been reshaping its news brand since its merger earlier this year. According to AP News and Reuters, the company is focused on stronger storytelling and a clearer editorial vision.

The next co-host for CBS Mornings will help define the show’s direction in 2026. Morning shows depend on chemistry. The hosts set the tone for millions of households. Viewers often respond to how well the team connects on screen.

This makes CBS’s choice important. The network wants to draw more viewers in a tight race. ABC and NBC both hold strong spots. CBS sees its recent rise as a chance to grow its audience.

Industry chatter has mentioned several names. But no confirmed reports link any specific figure to the job. There is also no verified information connecting David Del Rio to the vacancy.

CBS Mornings will continue to shift as the network shapes its plans. The next co-host will play a key role, and the choice will help decide how CBS Mornings competes in the year ahead.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Who is leaving CBS Mornings?

Tony Dokoupil is leaving CBS Mornings. He is moving to CBS Evening News as the main anchor. His new role begins this month.

Q2: Is Gayle King staying?

Yes. Gayle King said she plans to stay. She confirmed this during a recent talk show appearance.

Q3: How are CBS Mornings ratings?

The show rose 6 percent in total viewers in early December. It also rose 13 percent in the 25-54 demo. Reuters reported these gains.

Q4: Has CBS named a new co-host?

No. CBS has not announced a replacement yet. There are no confirmed candidates.

Q5: Is David Del Rio involved?

There is no confirmed link between David Del Rio and the open role. No trusted source has reported his involvement.