The landscape of evening news underwent a significant transformation in early 2025 as Norah O’Donnell concluded her five-year tenure as the anchor and managing editor of CBS Evening News. Her departure marked the end of a distinct era for the network, characterized by high-profile interviews and a strong journalistic presence.
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When Was Her Last Night?
While there was initial speculation regarding the exact timing of her exit, it was officially confirmed that Norah O’Donnell’s final broadcast took place on January 23, 2025. Although some reports previously suggested a departure date of January 24, the schedule was adjusted to accommodate the broadcast of the Farmers Insurance Open, moving her final appearance forward by one day.
A Legacy of Journalism
During her time at the helm, O’Donnell brought a rigorous approach to the anchor chair. Her tenure was highlighted by several memorable moments, including:
- A historic, wide-ranging interview with Pope Francis.
- Live reporting from the deck of the USS Nimitz.
- Consistent coverage of major political and global events from Washington, D.C.
In a special tribute, media icon Oprah Winfrey joined the network to reflect on O’Donnell’s contributions to broadcast journalism, honoring her impact as a lead anchor.
The Future of CBS Evening News
Following O’Donnell’s departure, CBS opted for a strategic shift in its programming structure. Rather than appointing a single successor, the network moved toward an ensemble format. The new iteration of CBS Evening News features:
- John Dickerson and Maurice DuBois anchoring from New York.
- Washington D.C. reporting led by Margaret Brennan.
- Weather updates provided by Lonnie Quinn.
This transition represents a broader effort by CBS to revitalize its evening presence in a competitive media market. While O’Donnell has stepped away from the evening desk, she remains a part of the CBS family, transitioning into a new role within the network. Her departure signifies a major pivot for the program as it seeks to engage audiences through a collaborative, multi-anchor approach.
