Tony Dokoupil has been named the new anchor for CBS Evening News. He will take over starting January 5, 2026, replacing co-anchors Maurice DuBois and John Dickerson, who departed amid network changes.

Background on the Transition

CBS News announced Dokoupil's appointment on December 10, 2025, following intense negotiations sparked by DuBois's unexpected exit announcement. Dokoupil, a co-host on CBS Mornings since 2019 and an Emmy-winning journalist, steps into the role during a major overhaul led by new editor-in-chief Bari Weiss. This shift comes after CBS's parent company Paramount was acquired by Skydance for $8 billion, prompting staffing changes including ABC's Matt Gutman joining as a correspondent and fill-in anchor.

Key Timeline

  • October 2025 : John Dickerson announces departure after 16 years at CBS.
  • Early December 2025 : Maurice DuBois reveals exit, surprising insiders; CBS accelerates talks with Dokoupil.
  • December 10, 2025 : Official announcement of Dokoupil as anchor.
  • January 5, 2026 : Dokoupil debuts; broadcast airs at 6:30 ET on CBS and Paramount+.

Context and Reactions

The Evening News has struggled in third place ratings-wise, losing viewers and ad revenue, making this a high-stakes hire. Weiss considered other candidates like Fox's Bret Baier and CNN's Anderson Cooper before settling on Dokoupil, backed by network leaders. Post-debut discussions in early 2026 forums noted format tweaks like headline tickers and 60 Minutes-style storytelling, with mixed feedback on production elements.

TL;DR : Tony Dokoupil is the confirmed new anchor, debuting in early January 2026 amid CBS News' post-acquisition revamp.

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