CBS News Ratings Plummet as Staff Cuts and Leadership Changes Spark Viewer Exodus

CBS News’ marquee shows are heading for record-low ratings this month according to Nielsen data. The network’s flagship evening news program, “CBS Evening News,” which recently revamped its lineup with new anchor Tony Dokoupil, is averaging 4.3 million viewers—down 1 million from a year ago and trailing both “ABC World News Tonight” and “NBC Nightly News.”

“CBS Mornings,” co-hosted by Gayle King and Nate Burleson, is also on pace for its lowest-rated month in history with 1.3 million viewers. Newly appointed editor-in-chief Bari Weiss has reportedly considered transitioning King to special correspondent while halving her $13 million salary. Burleson is also likely to depart the show.

“CBS Saturday Morning,” which debuted new anchors Adriana Diaz and Kelly O’Grady, is averaging 1.6 million viewers—its lowest rating in January. The network’s “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert,” wrapping up its season this month, posted the worst performance among viewers aged 25 to 54, averaging just 285,000 viewers in January.

Industry insiders have questioned whether CBS News’ recent strategic shifts under Weiss have driven viewers away. One anonymous insider remarked: “When will CBS learn that you have to program for the whole country and not just the coasts?” Another source added: “It’s certainly an indication that America is turning off CBS News. Maybe the appointment of Bari Weiss has alienated CBS viewers?”

CBS News is also undergoing cost-cutting measures under Weiss, with additional layoffs expected soon.