John Dickerson, co-anchor of “CBS Evening News,” has announced his departure from the network. He shared his decision on social media, posting a collection of photos from his 16 years with CBS News. “At the end of this year, I will leave CBS, sixteen years after I sat in as ‘Face the Nation’ anchor for the first time. I am extremely grateful for all that CBS gave me — the work, the audience’s attention and the honor of being a part of the network’s history — and I am grateful for the dear colleagues who’ve made me a better journalist and a better human. I will miss you,” he stated.
Dickerson did not specify why he is leaving or whether he plans to join another media outlet. His departure occurs amidst significant changes at CBS following the Skydance Media-Paramount Global merger earlier in 2025. Prior to the merger's completion, CBS experienced several high-profile departures, including the head of the news division. While the exact reasons for these departures remain unclear, reports suggest some individuals anticipated the network's future direction under Skydance.
Since then, CBS has appointed two right-leaning individuals with limited experience in major television news operations, namely ombudsmen Kenneth R. Weinstein and editor in chief Bari Weiss. Key executive producers have also left, and Paramount Skydance is reportedly considering substantial layoffs, although the potential impact on the news division is uncertain. There is currently no information regarding the future of “CBS Evening News," but reports indicate that Weiss is considering further adjustments. The possibility of Norah O’Donnell, a former anchor, returning to the broadcast has also been mentioned, though its likelihood is unclear.
CBS last revamped the broadcast in January 2025 after O’Donnell stepped down from the anchor role to continue contributing to the network through its “60 Minutes” program. The changes resulted in lower ratings, leading the network to partially reverse its approach. This led to Dickerson and WCBS anchor Maurice DuBois co-anchoring the broadcast, focusing more on in-depth stories rather than just headlines. It remains uncertain whether DuBois will continue anchoring “Evening,” return to WCBS full-time, or leave the company altogether. Tony Dokupil, co-anchor of “CBS Mornings,” has also been mentioned as a possible replacement on “Evening.” Dickerson, 57, may choose to retire, join another news organization, or pursue independent ventures. He previously had experience with digital audiences as the anchor of “The Daily Report” on the network's free news streaming service.