Norah O'Donnell is set to depart the anchor chair of the CBS Evening News, with her final broadcast occurring one day earlier than originally planned. Initially, her last show was scheduled for January 24, but due to the CBS Sports coverage of the PGA Tour Farmers Insurance Open, her farewell will now take place on January 23, 2024.
This adjustment allows O'Donnell to conclude her time on the program without conflicting with the evening's sports broadcast, which begins at 5 PM ET on CBS. Her tenure at CBS Evening News began back in July 2019, marking nearly five years of leadership during which she covered significant events, including the 2024 election and the inauguration of Donald Trump.
The announcement of O'Donnell's departure last July came with her intentions to focus on special projects and high-profile interviews for CBS News. She mentioned her aspirations to engage more deeply with journalism beyond the anchor desk, hinting at future endeavors within the network.
Following O'Donnell's exit, CBS Evening News will be steered by Margaret Brennan, John Dickerson, and Maurice DuBois. Each of these individuals brings their own style and experience to the show, but the change is more than just personnel. The program will also relocate its production base from Washington D.C. to New York, reflecting CBS's broader strategy for its news division.
Alongside this shift, CBS plans to introduce CBS Evening News Plus, a streaming companion program. This new platform will air on CBS News 24/7 at 7 PM ET, hosted by John Dickerson. It aims to keep viewers engaged with the latest news developments and address the modern consumption habits of audiences.
O'Donnell's decision to leave, noted for both her impactful reporting and her role as one of the prominent female anchors on network television, heralds the end of an era for CBS Evening News. Her contributions to the network helped navigate pivotal moments in American politics and culture during her time.
With the arrival of O'Donnell’s successor, CBS News is set to enter uncharted waters, hoping to attract and maintain audiences with new strategies suited for today's fast-paced news environment. The transition symbolizes both change and continuity, as the network continues its mission of delivering reliable news to the American public.
Although the specifics of O'Donnell's upcoming projects remain undisclosed, her influence at CBS will undoubtedly inform her future work, aiming to leverage her extensive experience and connections within the industry. The departure is not just about ending one chapter; it also opens new possibilities for O'Donnell and CBS News as the media company evolves.