Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Norah O'Donnell Emerges as Frontrunner for CBS Mornings Co-Host

Executives are weighing a format relaunch to reverse steep ratings losses with a decision on a permanent co-host expected by September.

Overview

  • Multiple reports say Norah O'Donnell is a leading candidate to fill the vacant third co-host chair and that CBS News editor in chief Bari Weiss favors her.
  • Recent coverage notes O'Donnell's profile at CBS has risen after new roles on 60 Minutes and a podcast, which supporters say strengthen her bid for mornings.
  • Other names under consideration include Eva Pilgrim, Elisabeth Hasselbeck, and CBS anchor Kelly O'Grady, and no final hire has been announced.
  • Insiders quoted by the press describe Gayle King as unhappy about the possibility of O'Donnell's return and say King remains central to the selection process.
  • Executives are considering program changes, including a more chat-driven, Morning Joe-style format to address a steep ratings slide blamed partly on lost late-night lead-ins and low viewer numbers.