The Gayle King Era: 5 Major Reasons She’s Stepping Away From CBS Mornings And Her $15 Million Legacy

Gayle King remains one of the most influential and recognizable figures in American broadcast journalism today, but a significant shift is on the horizon. As of late 2025, the biggest story surrounding the award-winning co-host of *CBS Mornings* is the highly-anticipated—and widely reported—decision to step away from her daily anchor duties when her current contract concludes in May 2026. This move signals a major transition for the veteran journalist, who has been a pillar of the CBS morning show for over a decade, and sets the stage for a new chapter focused on "special projects" and a less demanding schedule. The news, which has been the subject of industry speculation for months, was largely confirmed by King herself in recent appearances, though she maintains a playful air of mystery about the exact details of her next move. The transition, which is still over a year away, has already sparked intense discussion about the future of *CBS Mornings* and the enduring legacy King will leave behind on the daily news landscape. Her influence extends far beyond the news desk, encompassing her role as a media executive, a celebrated author, a devoted mother, and, of course, the best friend of media mogul Oprah Winfrey.

Gayle King: A Journalist's Complete Biography and Profile

Gayle King’s career is a testament to perseverance, authenticity, and the power of compelling storytelling. Her journey from local news anchor to one of the highest-paid and most respected figures in national television has made her a household name.

• Full Name: Gayle King
• Date of Birth: December 28, 1954
• Place of Birth: Chevy Chase, Maryland, U.S.
• Education: University of Maryland, College Park (B.A. in Psychology)
• Current Roles: Co-host of CBS Mornings (formerly CBS This Morning), Editor-at-Large for Oprah Daily (formerly O, The Oprah Magazine), Host of Gayle King in the House.
• Career Highlights: Began her career at WJZ-TV in Baltimore, where she met Oprah Winfrey. She worked at WFSB in Hartford, Connecticut, for 18 years. Joined CBS News in 2011. Inducted into the Broadcasting & Cable Hall of Fame.
• Former Spouse: William Bumpus (m. 1982; div. 1993)
• Children: Kirby Bumpus and William Bumpus Jr.
• Grandchildren: She became a grandmother in November 2021 when her daughter Kirby gave birth to a son. She has since welcomed a second grandchild.

The Shockwave: Why King Is Leaving Her Daily Anchor Role in 2026

The announcement that Gayle King will step away from her daily co-anchor duties on *CBS Mornings* in May 2026 is a seismic event in morning television. While the move is often framed as an "exit," it is more accurately described as a strategic career evolution. The decision appears to be driven by a combination of personal and professional factors, allowing the veteran broadcast journalist to transition to a more flexible, high-impact role within the network.

1. The Lure of "Special Projects" and High-Impact Journalism

King is not leaving CBS News entirely. Reports indicate her new deal will see her remain with the network, focusing on special, high-profile projects and long-form interviews. This shift allows her to utilize her formidable interviewing skills on major newsmakers without the grueling, daily 3:30 a.m. wake-up call required of a morning show anchor. This kind of work is often more prestigious and allows for deeper, more investigative reporting, which is a hallmark of her career.

• The One Where They Tanked Jokes 15 Shocking New Secrets From The Friends Tv Show Behind The Scenes G9zdh

2. The Freedom from the Daily Grind of Morning Television

Morning show hosts have one of the most demanding schedules in television. The early hours, combined with the constant pressure of breaking news, can be exhausting over a sustained period. After more than a decade at the helm of *CBS Mornings* (and its previous iteration, *CBS This Morning*), the desire for a less punishing schedule is a major factor. This new arrangement provides a better work-life balance, allowing her to spend more time with her family.

3. Focusing on Her Media Empire with Oprah Daily

King is the Editor-at-Large of *Oprah Daily*, the multi-platform media company co-founded with Oprah Winfrey. This role is far from a mere title; it involves creating content, hosting the *Gayle King in the House* show, and actively promoting major initiatives like "Oprah's Favorite Things 2024." Stepping back from the daily CBS news desk will free up considerable time to expand her influence within the *Oprah Daily* brand, further cementing her status as a media executive and lifestyle authority.

The Enduring Power of the Gayle King and Oprah Winfrey Friendship

No discussion of Gayle King is complete without acknowledging her legendary, decades-long friendship with Oprah Winfrey. Their bond, which began when they were colleagues at a Baltimore-area news station in the late 1970s, is one of the most celebrated in media history. Their relationship remains incredibly close and is frequently in the news, providing fresh, current updates for fans.

• 5 Shocking Facts About Anna Congdon Penn State Sweetheart To Nfl Fiances Social Media Firestorm Cc90e

In a recent example that captured national attention, King was the one to share the news about Oprah’s recent emergency room visit for a stomach bug, providing a candid and personal update on her best friend’s health. This moment underscored King’s unique position: she is a journalist with access to the highest levels of power and celebrity, yet she delivers information with the warmth and intimacy of a trusted confidante. Their ongoing collaboration on *Oprah's Favorite Things*, with King showcasing the 2024 list on various platforms, further illustrates their intertwined professional and personal lives.

Gayle King Today: Family Life and a New Generation

As she prepares for her next professional chapter, King’s personal life is flourishing, particularly her role as a mother and grandmother. King’s two children, Kirby Bumpus and William Bumpus Jr., are grown and making their own marks in the world. Her daughter, Kirby, is a public health advocate and social impact professional, while her son, William Jr., is involved in the venture capital and technology space.

The role of "Grandma King" is one she has embraced wholeheartedly. Her daughter Kirby welcomed a first grandchild in late 2021, and King has since welcomed a second grandchild, a source of immense joy and a key factor in her desire for a more flexible schedule. This focus on family and a desire to be present for the next generation—a common theme for high-achieving individuals in their later career stages—strongly supports the decision to transition away from the daily grind of *CBS Mornings*. The move is not a retirement, but a deliberate choice to prioritize quality of life and high-impact work over the relentless pace of a daily news broadcast.

• 7 Shocking Things Jessica Capshaw Revealed About Growing Up With Steven Spielberg As Her Stepfather 892ho

4. The $15 Million Contract and Strategic Negotiation

King is one of the highest-paid journalists in the industry, with her current contract reportedly valued in the millions. The decision to step away from the daily anchor role, while remaining with CBS News, is a savvy strategic move. It allows her to maintain a lucrative relationship with the network while reducing her workload. This negotiation ensures her continued influence and financial security, while also providing CBS News with the benefit of her star power for major breaking news and exclusive interviews, without the commitment of a daily presence.

5. Securing Her Legacy as a Top-Tier Interviewer

Gayle King’s interviews—from R. Kelly and Jeff Bezos’s ex-wife MacKenzie Scott to countless political and cultural figures—are known for their directness, empathy, and ability to extract genuine emotion and information. By moving to a role focused on "special projects," King is strategically cementing her legacy as a top-tier interviewer, allowing her to choose the most impactful stories and events. This ensures her final years in television are defined by quality, high-profile journalism rather than the day-to-day fluctuations of morning show ratings.