Maurice DuBois to Leave CBS News Amid “CBS Evening News” Overhaul
Maurice DuBois, a seasoned TV anchor known for his calm delivery of even the most shocking news, has announced his departure from CBS News. After 21 years with CBS-owned properties, DuBois will be leaving on December 18, marking the end of an era at the Paramount Skydance news division. His departure comes amidst a larger overhaul of the “CBS Evening News” following noticeable ratings declines.
John Dickerson, DuBois’ co-anchor on the current edition of “CBS Evening News,” had previously announced his intention to leave CBS News. The departure of both anchors without naming replacements is a departure from traditional practices, but CBS News is currently undergoing significant changes under the leadership of editor-in-chief Bari Weiss.
Weiss, a non-traditional executive with a background in opinion journalism, has been reaching out to top TV journalists in recent weeks to potentially fill the vacancies left by DuBois and Dickerson. However, many of these journalists are currently tied up in contracts with other companies, complicating the search for new talent.
The “CBS Evening News” has faced challenges in the ratings since the network shifted its focus away from breaking news. The unique dynamic between DuBois and Dickerson, with DuBois’ smooth delivery contrasting Dickerson’s more kinetic presence, did not resonate as strongly with viewers as anticipated.
As of late November, “CBS Evening News” was averaging nearly 4.26 million viewers, trailing behind competitors like “NBC Nightly News” and “ABC World News Tonight.” The demographic most coveted by advertisers, viewers aged 25-54, also showed a significant gap between “Evening News” and its competitors.
There is speculation about whether DuBois may return to WCBS, where he built a strong connection with viewers over the years. However, Paramount’s cost-cutting measures have led to the departure of other top local anchors, indicating a shift in the industry.
