The revamped “CBS Evening News” experienced a 14% ratings bump in its first broadcast after Norah O’Donnell’s departure, but media industry experts are skeptical about the show’s long-term success. The new anchor team, consisting of Maurice DuBois and John Dickerson, were described as “stodgy” and lacking the chemistry of other evening news anchors.
Despite the ratings boost, the show still lags behind ABC and NBC in the ratings. Industry insiders noted that the new format, which prioritizes in-depth reporting and lower overhead costs, may not be appealing to viewers. The show’s debut featured segments on the war in Gaza, a terminally ill patient’s journey to die with dignity, and ICE’s preparations for raids in New York City.
However, critics were skeptical about the show’s ability to maintain its momentum, citing the difficulty of keeping viewers engaged with heavy enterprise reporting in a 30-minute broadcast. Another concern was the amateurish appearance of the show’s single-camera setup and dark set.
Industry experts predict that it will be clear by Friday whether the show can retain its viewers. The success of the revamped “CBS Evening News” will depend on its ability to balance in-depth reporting with engaging storytelling and presentation.