CBS Gambles Big!

A revamped CBS Evening News aims to regain public trust, challenging legacy media’s credibility issues.

Story Snapshot

Tony Dokoupil takes over CBS Evening News on January 5, 2026, pledging independence from corporate influences.
The overhaul is a response to declining trust in legacy media, emphasizing a viewer-first approach.
Dokoupil plans a multi-city tour to engage with average Americans directly.
Controversy surrounds Bari Weiss’s role as editor-in-chief, with critiques of past journalistic biases.

Revamp of CBS Evening News

On January 5, 2026, Tony Dokoupil will take the helm of the CBS Evening News, aiming to restore public trust in legacy media. This shift comes amid growing skepticism toward traditional news outlets, criticized for prioritizing elite perspectives over the concerns of everyday Americans. Dokoupil has pledged to steer clear of corporate and political influences, focusing instead on delivering news that resonates with viewers.

Challenges and Controversies

The appointment of Bari Weiss as editor-in-chief has not been without controversy. Her decision to pull a *60 Minutes* segment on Trump-era deportations has faced backlash, highlighting ongoing tensions within CBS News. Despite these challenges, the network is moving forward with plans to revamp the evening news format, hoping to differentiate itself from its competitors by focusing on authentic, on-the-ground reporting.

Dokoupil’s approach includes a commitment to engaging with the public through a 10-city, 10-day “Live from America” tour. This initiative will see him reporting from various locations, emphasizing stories that matter to average Americans. Such efforts aim to bridge the gap between the media and the public, challenging the perception that legacy media is out of touch.

Implications for Legacy Media

The success of this overhaul remains uncertain. While there is optimism that these changes could revitalize CBS’s viewership, skepticism persists regarding the long-term viability of legacy media. Critics, such as Megyn Kelly, argue that the decline of evening news is irreversible. However, if Dokoupil’s promises hold true, CBS could redefine its role in the modern media landscape, setting a precedent for others to follow.

As the media landscape continues to evolve, the changes at CBS reflect a broader industry shift. Networks are increasingly tasked with rebuilding trust and relevance in an era where viewers demand transparency and authenticity. The outcome of CBS’s efforts could shape the future of news broadcasting, impacting how stories are told and who gets to tell them.