In a heartfelt farewell, CBS anchor Norah O’Donnell bid goodbye to her viewers for the last time, marking the end of an era in her career as sweeping changes transform the network.
Her departure reflects not just the evolution of CBS but also her own journey to take on new opportunities.
A Legacy of Leadership at CBS
O’Donnell, 51, has been a trusted face on the “CBS Evening News” since 2019, although her history with the network dates back to 2012.
Calling her tenure “the honor of a lifetime,” she officially signed off Thursday night.
This decision coincides with major shifts at CBS’s parent company, Paramount Global, which recently announced significant layoffs and restructuring.
Despite leaving her primetime role, O’Donnell isn’t stepping away from CBS entirely.
She will pivot to an expanded role, contributing to long-form programming on “60 Minutes,” “Sunday Morning,” and special CBS broadcasts.
Oprah’s Touching Tribute
Among the many tributes to O’Donnell, one stood out: Oprah Winfrey surprised the veteran journalist with a video montage honoring her remarkable career.
The segment highlighted some of her most memorable interviews, featuring notable figures like Pope Francis, Dolly Parton, former President George W. Bush, and Vice President Kamala Harris.
“You have so much to be proud of,” Winfrey said.
“Your work as anchor and managing editor of the ‘CBS Evening News’ has not only won awards but has truly informed and impacted our nation.”
Reflecting on a Storied Career
O’Donnell expressed deep gratitude during her final broadcast, emphasizing the importance of journalism and teamwork.
“This has been the honor of a lifetime to anchor this legacy broadcast,” she said.
“The ‘CBS Evening News’ is the longest-running evening newscast in America, powered by some of the finest journalists in the world.”
She also gave a heartfelt thanks to her viewers, acknowledging their role in supporting the program.
“Thank you for trusting us and welcoming hard news with heart into your homes,” she added.
The Transition and Network Challenges
O’Donnell’s departure comes as CBS faces industry challenges, including declining ratings.
The network has struggled to compete with ABC’s “World News Tonight” and NBC’s “Nightly News,” averaging 4.6 million viewers in the most recent quarter.
In the critical 25–54 demographic, CBS lagged further, attracting just 670,000 viewers.
Her primetime slot will now be co-hosted by John Dickerson, a CBS reporter, and Maurice DuBois, anchor of CBS New York.
DuBois acknowledged the responsibility of connecting with audiences, saying, “This is my hometown, and without the viewers, there is no us.”
A Controversial Backdrop
O’Donnell’s departure also comes after CBS faced internal controversy.
Morning show anchor Tony Dokoupil sparked debate during an on-air discussion with author Ta-Nehisi Coates.
The heated exchange, in which Coates referred to Israel as an “apartheid state,” led to a rebuke for Dokoupil from CBS executives, although he faced no further disciplinary action.
Looking Ahead
As O’Donnell moves into her new role, she leaves behind an indelible mark on CBS.
“I will miss you too,” she told her audience in her emotional closing.
“For the final time, that’s tonight’s ‘CBS Evening News.’ I owe it all to everyone I work with. Love you. Goodnight.”
Her next chapter will focus on deep-dive journalism, while the evening news transitions to fresh faces.
For viewers and colleagues alike, O’Donnell’s impact will undoubtedly remain a defining part of CBS’s legacy.