What's happened
As of January 5, 2026, Tony Dokoupil will become the sole anchor of CBS Evening News, replacing John Dickerson and Maurice DuBois, who are departing. This appointment is part of a broader CBS News overhaul led by new editor-in-chief Bari Weiss, who is reshaping the network's programming and staffing amid ongoing ratings challenges and corporate changes.
What's behind the headline?
Strategic Overhaul Under Bari Weiss
Bari Weiss's appointment as CBS News editor-in-chief marks a decisive shift toward a more centrist and politically balanced editorial stance, reflecting the influence of Paramount Skydance CEO David Ellison. Weiss's leadership is characterized by a willingness to make bold personnel changes, exemplified by Tony Dokoupil's promotion to anchor the flagship evening newscast.
Dokoupil's Rise and Editorial Alignment
Dokoupil's contentious 2024 interview with Ta-Nehisi Coates, which drew internal criticism for perceived pro-Israel bias, aligns with Weiss's editorial vision. His subsequent exclusive interview with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu further cements his role as a key figure in the network's new direction. This suggests a strategic emphasis on pro-Israel perspectives and a tougher stance on Middle East coverage.
Programming and Staffing Implications
The replacement of co-anchors John Dickerson and Maurice DuBois with Dokoupil signals a move away from the dual-anchor format that was criticized for lacking chemistry and clarity. Weiss's broader shakeup includes revamping CBS Mornings and CBS Saturday Morning, indicating a comprehensive effort to rebuild the network's news brand and improve ratings.
Challenges Ahead
Despite these changes, CBS Evening News faces significant challenges, including entrenched third-place ratings and competition from ABC and NBC. Weiss's limited budget and the difficulty in attracting high-profile external talent have constrained options, making internal promotions like Dokoupil's a pragmatic choice.
Forecast
Dokoupil's appointment will likely solidify CBS News's editorial stance under Weiss, potentially attracting viewers seeking a centrist, pro-Israel perspective. However, the network must balance this with broader audience appeal to reverse its ratings decline. The ongoing programming overhaul and talent reshuffling suggest CBS News is positioning itself for a long-term strategic pivot rather than a quick fix.
What the papers say
Alexandra Steigrad of the NY Post provides detailed coverage of the personnel changes, noting Weiss's strategic hires including Dokoupil's promotion and the overhaul of CBS Mornings and Saturday Morning shows. Steigrad highlights internal dynamics, such as contract negotiations accelerated by Maurice DuBois's unexpected Instagram announcement and Weiss's attempts to recruit high-profile anchors like Anderson Cooper and Bret Baier, which were unsuccessful due to budget and contract constraints.
The New York Times' Michael M. Grynbaum frames Dokoupil's appointment as the first major shake-up under Weiss, emphasizing her outsider status and the network's struggle with ratings. He quotes Weiss stating, "Tony Dokoupil is the person to win it back," underscoring the editorial values Weiss aims to restore.
The Times of Israel and The Independent provide context on Dokoupil's controversial 2024 interview with Ta-Nehisi Coates, illustrating internal CBS tensions over Israel coverage. They note Weiss's defense of Dokoupil and his alignment with her pro-Israel editorial stance, which has influenced his rise.
AP News and The Independent also report on the broader CBS News restructuring, including the departure of co-anchors Dickerson and DuBois and the network's programming challenges. They highlight Weiss's efforts to bring in fresh talent like ABC's Matt Gutman for "48 Hours" and the planned town hall events to communicate her vision.
Together, these sources paint a picture of a network in transition, driven by new leadership seeking to redefine its editorial identity and regain viewer trust amid competitive pressures.
How we got here
CBS Evening News has struggled with ratings and anchor turnover in recent years. Bari Weiss, appointed editor-in-chief in October 2025 after Paramount Skydance's acquisition of CBS News, is leading a major restructuring. Weiss has pursued high-profile talent and made significant hires to revamp the network's programming and editorial direction.
Go deeper
- What changes is Bari Weiss making at CBS News?
- Why did John Dickerson and Maurice DuBois leave CBS Evening News?
- How will Tony Dokoupil's appointment affect CBS Evening News ratings?
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