Maurice DuBois to leave CBS as 'Evening News' shakeup persists

Maurice DuBois, co-anchor of the CBS Evening News, is set to leave the network as part of a broader restructuring of the struggling program. He confirmed his departure on Instagram, noting that his final day at CBS after 21 years will be December 18.

DuBois, widely recognized for his work at WCBS-TV in New York, joined the CBS Evening News as co-anchor alongside John Dickerson in January of last year. Reflecting on his career, DuBois wrote, It has been the honor of a lifetime. 21 years altogether, including my time at WCBS-TV in New York City. What a privilege to bring the news to viewers and share remarkable stories.

John Dickerson had previously announced his exit from CBS in late October, preceding a first wave of layoffs at the network. Industry insiders suggest that DuBois departure may indicate a second round of cuts under new editor-in-chief Bari Weiss, potentially before the holiday season.

The dual-anchor format of the Evening News faced criticism for being clunky, awkward, and lacking on-screen chemistry, contributing to the shows declining ratings. CBS executives, including President Tom Cibrowski and Weiss, have been evaluating a revamp of the program, seeking a new lead anchor for the legacy show once led by Walter Cronkite.

Cibrowski commented, Maurice is deeply valued and respected as a journalist, and we wish him every success. I hope our paths cross again. We will provide updates on the next chapter of CBS Evening News soon.

Currently, CBS has not disclosed who will take over as anchor. Internal speculation points to CBS Mornings co-anchor Tony Dokoupil as a possible candidate. Former anchor Norah ODonnell has also been mentioned, though sources say this is unlikely. ABC News correspondent Matt Gutman is reportedly under consideration as well.

DuBois and Dickersons departures mark a significant change for the Evening News, which has lost approximately 1 million viewers over the past year. Nielsen reports show the program averaging around 4.1 million viewers this season, falling behind ABCs World News Tonight and NBCs Nightly News.

Despite the exits being anticipated, CBS has yet to announce permanent replacements, with insiders suggesting the network may use interim anchors until a new lead is chosen.

Author: Ava Mitchell