Summary (tl;dr)

Tony Dokoupil has been named the new solo anchor of "CBS Evening News," replacing the recently departed co-anchors John Dickerson and Maurice DuBois, marking a significant change for the network's flagship nightly broadcast.

Essential Background

Prior to this appointment, Tony Dokoupil served as a co-host of "CBS Mornings" since 2019, having joined CBS News in 2016. The "CBS Evening News" had recently transitioned to a dual-anchor format with John Dickerson and Maurice DuBois, a period during which the program experienced lagging ratings compared to its competitors. Both Dickerson and DuBois announced their departures from the network in October and last week, respectively, necessitating a search for new leadership for the broadcast.

The Full Story

On Wednesday, December 10, 2025, CBS News officially announced Tony Dokoupil as the new anchor for "CBS Evening News," with his first broadcast scheduled for January 5, 2026. This promotion is a key decision by the newly appointed CBS News editor-in-chief, Bari Weiss, who stated that Dokoupil embodies "old school journalistic values" essential for regaining public trust in the media. Dokoupil's move signifies a return to a single-anchor format for the evening newscast, replacing the recent dual-anchor setup. He is expected to begin his tenure with a cross-country tour, stepping out from behind the anchor desk to engage with viewers across America.

Why It Matters

This change is a pivotal moment for "CBS Evening News," which, as America's longest-running nightly newscast, has consistently ranked third in ratings behind NBC and ABC. The selection of Dokoupil and the shift back to a solo anchor under Bari Weiss's leadership indicate a concerted effort to revitalize the program and enhance its competitiveness. This strategic pivot aims to restore viewer trust and could reshape the dynamic of broadcast television news as CBS seeks to strengthen its position in the competitive evening news landscape.

Geographic Location

• CBS Studios, New York City, New York, United States (announcement of new anchor for "CBS Evening News")