Norah O’Donnell is set to rejoin CBS Mornings, a move that marks her return to a familiar role alongside longtime colleague Gayle King and Nate Burleson. Beginning on September 8, O’Donnell will step into the co-host position that was vacated by Tony Dokoupil earlier this year when he transitioned to become the anchor and managing editor of CBS Evening News.
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O’Donnell, a seasoned journalist with more than two decades of experience at CBS News, is returning to morning television after an impactful stint as the anchor of CBS Evening News, a role she assumed in 2019. Her departure from the morning show, where she had worked alongside King since 2012, initially signalled a shift in her career. However, now at 52 years old, she is embracing this new opportunity, which many see as a homecoming.
The network announced that O’Donnell’s appointment is part of a strategic effort to enhance CBS Mornings as they navigate the evolving landscape of news reporting. A CBS source elaborated that bringing together three prominent journalists—O’Donnell, King, and Burleson—was a deliberate choice aimed at providing viewers with a comprehensive blend of perspectives and expertise. The insider commented on the move, highlighting a desire for the audience to receive top-quality CBS news in the morning.
O’Donnell and King share a professional history that spans over 15 years and includes a deep friendship. According to network insiders, their rapport and complementary skills are expected to enrich the dynamics of the morning show. Notably, King played an integral role in the selection process of O’Donnell, indicating the collaborative nature of their relationship.
During her tenure at CBS This Morning, O’Donnell made a significant impact, contributing to the show’s success. Following her transition to the evening news, she expanded her role within the network by becoming a senior correspondent. In that capacity, she was able to showcase her versatility by contributing to various CBS programs and recently launched a podcast focusing on women’s health.
With the political landscape shifting ahead of the 2026 midterm elections, O’Donnell’s extensive experience is expected to bolster the morning show’s political coverage, aligning with CBS’s broader strategy. The network’s leadership has expressed confidence that O’Donnell’s wealth of experience—having interviewed every living U.S. president, alongside her notable work with 60 Minutes—will further enrich CBS Mornings.
Jon Tower, the executive producer of CBS Mornings, expressed enthusiasm for O’Donnell’s return in a note to the team. He highlighted the “remarkable partnership” between O’Donnell and King, underscoring the chemistry they share both on and off-air. Tower commended O’Donnell as an exceptional fit for the show and praised King for her reputation as one of the industry’s top interviewers. He also acknowledged Burleson, who brings his unique warmth and spontaneity to the team, enhancing the overall appeal of the broadcast.
As CBS Mornings prepares for O’Donnell’s long-anticipated return, the show plans to shift its focus towards more live discussions surrounding major news stories, while scaling back on certain feature segments. With CBS News president Tom Cibrowski at the helm, the show aims to revitalize morning television by assembling what he termed the “A-Team” for the anchor desk.
The lineup at CBS Mornings will not end with O’Donnell’s arrival. The programme is set to continue featuring reporters such as Vlad Duthiers, Adriana Diaz, and Kelly O’Grady, with plans to introduce new contributors in the upcoming season. The network is enthusiastic about the revitalised team, aiming to create a dynamic viewing experience for their audiences.
Overall, O’Donnell’s return to CBS Mornings signifies a pivotal moment for both her career and the network. As she rejoins familiar faces in what is arguably one of the most well-known morning broadcasts in the country, viewers can expect a renewed energy and a steadfast commitment to journalism in the months leading up to the crucial election cycle.