CBS Evening News Maurice DuBois bids farewell after 21 years, and his replacement might surprise you

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By: Jessica Morrison

CBS Evening News anchor Maurice DuBois is bidding farewell today with his final broadcast after more than two decades at the network. The 60-year-old veteran anchor built his reputation over 21 years at CBS News, becoming one of the most respected voices in television journalism. His departure marks another major transition for the struggling evening newscast amid significant changes at the network.

🔥 Quick Facts

  • Maurice DuBois announced his departure on December 4, 2025, via Instagram, stating December 18 would be his final broadcast
  • DuBois spent 20 years as an anchor at WCBS-TV in New York before joining CBS Evening News in January 2025 as co-anchor
  • Tony Dokoupil, currently a CBS Mornings co-anchor, has been named as DuBois’s permanent replacement, debuting January 5, 2026
  • DuBois’s departure comes weeks after co-anchor John Dickerson announced his own exit from the flagship broadcast

A Legacy Built Over Two Decades

Maurice DuBois joined WCBS-TV in 2004 and became one of New York’s most recognizable news anchors. He co-anchored the station’s 5 p.m. and 11 p.m. newscasts for 20 years, building a reputation as a trusted and distinguished storyteller. Prior to his WCBS tenure, he worked at WNBC-TV in New York starting in 1997.

In January 2025, DuBois was elevated to CBS Evening News as co-anchor, partnering with John Dickerson. Many viewed this as a prestigious role for the veteran journalist. However, his tenure at the national broadcast proved brief, lasting less than a year before his surprising announcement to depart.

Rapid Exit Amid Network Overhaul

DuBois announced his departure by posting on Instagram, writing: “Moving on: December 18th is the day of my last broadcast at CBS News. It has been the Honor of a Lifetime. 21 years altogether, including my time at the CBS New York station.” The announcement came as a surprise to many industry observers.

His exit occurs during a significant period of transition at CBS News. The network has been undergoing major changes, including Bari Weiss’s expected leadership role in shaping the newsroom. Former CBS News President Tom Cibrowski praised DuBois in a statement acknowledging his contributions and distinguished career at the network. No specific reason has been publicly stated for his sudden departure.

Leadership Transition Timeline

Date Event
January 27, 2025 Maurice DuBois and John Dickerson officially debut as CBS Evening News co-anchors
December 4, 2025 DuBois announces departure via Instagram, final broadcast December 18
December 18, 2025 Maurice DuBois delivers final CBS Evening News broadcast (today)
January 5, 2026 Tony Dokoupil debuts as sole anchor of CBS Evening News

Tony Dokoupil Emerges as Permanent Replacement

Tony Dokoupil, a 44-year-old Emmy Award-winning journalist, has been named the new anchor of CBS Evening News. Dokoupil, a Connecticut native, is transitioning from his role as co-anchor of CBS Mornings, where he worked alongside other morning show hosts. CBS News announced Dokoupil’s appointment on December 10, 2025.

Dokoupil brings extensive experience to the evening broadcast. He has been a fixture at CBS News for years and represents a fresh start for the program. His debut as sole anchor is scheduled for January 5, 2026, giving the network time to transition leadership. Industry observers view Dokoupil’s appointment as the network’s effort to stabilize the evening news franchise during a period of significant corporate restructuring at CBS.

What Does This Mean for CBS Evening News Future?

Maurice DuBois’s departure, coupled with John Dickerson’s earlier exit, signals major changes for CBS Evening News. The broadcast has struggled in the ratings compared to NBC Nightly News and ABC World News, according to industry reports. The network’s new leadership direction under Bari Weiss appears focused on repositioning the program with fresh talent and emerging voices.

Tony Dokoupil’s appointment as sole anchor represents a significant shift away from the co-anchor model that CBS Evening News has employed since Norah O’Donnell departed in 2024. Whether this change will move the needle for viewership and credibility remains to be seen, but the network clearly believes a new anchor structure and personality can help revitalize the flagship broadcast.

Sources

  • CNN – Maurice DuBois CBS Evening News co-anchor departure announcement and network transition details
  • People Magazine – Tony Dokoupil named new anchor of CBS Evening News and timeline of departures
  • The New York Times – CBS appoints Tony Dokoupil as anchor following Maurice DuBois exit

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