Insider Says Today Show Host Could Replace Gayle King

CBS Mornings may see a major personnel change, with host Gayle King potentially stepping aside for Hoda Kotb, the former anchor of the Today Show. Sources indicate that Bari Weiss, recently named editor-in-chief at CBS News, is pursuing Kotb, who retired from Today in January, as a candidate to take over once Kings contract expires in May 2026.

The situation comes amid mixed reports about whether King will actually leave CBS. Insider information suggests that Kings position could be at risk due to CBS Mornings lower ratings compared to rival programs. Kotb, on the other hand, is reportedly viewed as a strong contender because of her experience and popularity.

CBS is tired of being in third place, an insider explained. Bari wants a big name who brings warmth, credibility, and viewers. Hoda fits that perfectly. King is said to earn between $10 million and $15 million annually, which is notable as CBS parent company Paramount Global is considering significant staff reductions following its merger with Skydance. High salaries with low ratings are a target, and Gayle fits that profile, the source added.

If Kotb accepts, she could reportedly take a leading role without needing to share the spotlight, unlike her previous arrangement with Savannah Guthrie on Today. Earlier reports suggested Kotb was eager to return to morning television after her wellness venture, Joy 101, did not achieve the expected success. Sources note that Kotb realized her true influence is in morning shows and that she is the trusted morning companion for America.

Kotb has maintained a presence on NBC even after retirement, appearing as a guest host for events such as the Macys Thanksgiving Day Parade. Publicly, King and Kotb have shown mutual support, with King attending Kotbs final day on Today and presenting her with a gift. However, Kotbs current NBC contract is described by insiders as not particularly secure, leaving the door open for a potential move to CBS.

Analysis: A Shift in CBS Mornings Leadership

The speculation surrounding a potential change in CBS Mornings' hosting lineup raises questions about the network's strategic direction. With Gayle King's contract set to expire in May 2026, CBS is reportedly considering replacing her with Hoda Kotb, the former Today Show anchor. This decision would be a response to CBS Mornings' ongoing struggles with ratings, as the program continues to lag behind its competitors.

Sources indicate that Bari Weiss, recently appointed editor-in-chief at CBS News, is keen on bringing Kotb on board, citing her popularity and experience. Kotb's return to morning television, after her departure from Today earlier this year, could be seen as a fresh attempt by CBS to boost its morning ratings. Her appeal as a “trusted morning companion” for viewers is undeniable, and she could provide CBS with the warmth and credibility it needs to move up from its current third-place position in the ratings.

Despite the positive outlook for Kotb, it is clear that CBS's focus is on improving its standing, which could come at the expense of higher-paid hosts like King. With CBS's parent company, Paramount Global, considering staff cuts following a merger, high salaries combined with low ratings put King’s position in jeopardy. Kotb, with her established connection to viewers and the potential for a more prominent role, may provide the network with an opportunity to reinvent its morning show.

It remains to be seen whether Kotb will take up the offer to join CBS Mornings, but her proven track record in morning television makes her a viable candidate. If she does, it would signal a major shift in CBS’s approach to its morning programming, with a clear emphasis on boosting ratings and attracting a larger audience.

Sources:

• Gayle King Could Be Replaced by Today Show Host, Insider Says