The CBS Evening News has stepped boldly forward, marking the dawn of a new era with the introduction of its co-anchor format featuring award-winning journalists John Dickerson and Maurice DuBois. This exciting change, which went live on January 28, 2025, is not just about two voices sharing the anchor desk; it’s about redefining how news is presented to viewers amid the tumultuous events affecting the world.
Broadcasting from the famed Studio 47 in New York City, the duo promises to highlight important stories with clarity, tackling complex issues such as artificial intelligence developments, the continuing conflict in the Middle East, and the devastating wildfires ravaging Los Angeles. “That’s our job all day long. To take lots and lots of complicated stories, work them and work them and work them, and talk to people and get reporting, and make sure when we deliver it, people understand it in a clean and clear way,” John Dickerson stated, outlining their commitment to transparency and comprehensibility.
But it’s not just about the headlines. The co-anchors aim to connect at a human level, as demonstrated by their emotionally charged final segment, which honored the bravery of firefighters across the nation. DuBois eloquently remarked, “There is no greater love,” sharing his admiration for those willing to put their lives on the line for strangers. By incorporating segments like this, the new format aspires to make viewers feel informed and engaged, rather than just passive recipients of broadcast news.
The reshuffling also marks the return of CBS Evening News production to New York after previous anchor Norah O’Donnell transitioned to covering long-form stories and interviews across various CBS News platforms. O’Donnell previously held the anchor chair for five years, and her departure was honored with emotional farewells, including surprise appearances by celebrities like Oprah Winfrey. “I had some incredible moments,” O’Donnell reflected, as her time was celebrated with tributes highlighting her illustrious journalistic career.
Launching this dual-anchor format isn't merely about aesthetics; it reflects strategic adaptation to modern news consumption. With far-reaching impacts from climate change to geopolitical tensions, both Dickerson and DuBois emphasized the significance of contextualizing news events. “Why are we telling you this story? Why does it matter to you?” Dickerson asked rhetorically, articulately framing the duo’s mission to weave relevance and depth back to the news stories presented.
This novel approach also embraces innovative integration of additional content experts. Margaret Brennan will appear regularly to provide insight on political and foreign affairs news. Lonnie Quinn will join to deliver forecasts and discuss the repercussions of natural disasters. By weaving multiple perspectives and specialties, CBS aims to enrich viewer comprehension and engagement with the complex world we live in.
Although the co-anchors come from different professional backgrounds—Dickerson is the son of CBS News’ first female correspondent, and DuBois has Caribbean immigrant roots—both men expressed mutual respect and excitement about their partnership. “Even though we come from two different places, we tend to see things really in a similar way,” remarked Dickerson, showcasing the chemistry already forming between the pair. Their shared experiences as fathers, too, add warmth and relatability to their broadcasts, making the connection with viewers even stronger.
Following the launch, CBS is eager to hear back from the audience. Polls are being conducted to gauge public response to the new format, inviting viewers to share their impressions. This engagement could provide invaluable feedback as CBS navigates this transition.
The new format signifies more than just changing faces at the anchor desk; it embodies CBS's commitment to bringing news stories to life with clarity, emotion, and relevance. With image and intent aligned, Dickerson and DuBois are poised to usher CBS Evening News confidently toward its future, aiming to not just inform but to empower viewers as they process the events shaping our world.
So, as CBS Evening News enters this new chapter, audiences can expect more than just news—they can anticipate thoughtful discussions, informative segments, and insights delivered with both seriousness and warmth. Tune in every weeknight to CBS, channel 13, or stream live on Paramount+ to experience the evolution of evening news firsthand.