Get ready for a bold new chapter in American journalism! Tony Dokoupil, the Emmy-winning journalist, is taking the reins of the iconic "CBS Evening News". This announcement, made by CBS on December 10, 2025, marks a significant shift for one of America's most enduring news programs. Dokoupil's first day as anchor will be January 5, 2026, and he's kicking things off with a bang.
But here's where it gets controversial... Dokoupil plans to get out of the studio and into the hearts and minds of Americans. His first month will see him embark on a cross-country tour, a bold move that challenges the traditional anchor desk approach. With two decades of global journalism under his belt, Dokoupil believes in going where the story takes him, a philosophy that has earned him a reputation for authenticity and compassion.
"In an era of media distrust, Tony Dokoupil is the anchor we need. He embodies the old-school values of journalism: asking tough questions, following facts, and holding power accountable. Americans deserve fairness, and Tony delivers that every night," says Bari Weiss, CBS News' editor-in-chief.
Tom Cibrowski, president of CBS News, adds, "Tony is the anchor we all want: authentic, unafraid, and able to connect instantly with viewers, whether discussing world events or personal struggles."
Dokoupil's journey to the "CBS Evening News" began in 2019 when he joined "CBS Mornings" alongside Gayle King and Nate Burleson. During his time there, he reported from the front lines of major global news events, including the 2023 terror attack in Israel, the papal conclave in Rome, the Uvalde school shooting, wildfires in Maui and California, and the Jan. 6 insurrection. He also covered the start of the Ukraine war, the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse, and anchored the 2024 Democratic and Republican National Conventions.
"After 20 years of journalism across all 50 states, I understand the need for a show like this. Our nation thrives on fair reporting and open discussion. The "Evening News" has been a cornerstone of that for over 60 years. I'm honored to join this fearless team and promise to uphold trust and plain truth," Dokoupil said.
Kim Harvey, executive producer of the "CBS Evening News," said, "Tony's strength is his ability to listen. We want to serve Americans by meeting them where they are. This cross-country tour is a perfect way to start. Tony understands our nation's greatness and challenges, and I'm excited to partner with him to tell America's story every night."
Since joining CBS News in 2016, Dokoupil has interviewed a diverse range of influential figures, from politicians like Vice President JD Vance and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to cultural icons like Dolly Parton, Harry Styles, and Steve Martin.
Get ready for an ambitious new era of journalism with Tony Dokoupil at the helm of the "CBS Evening News." Will you be tuning in to see his unique approach to nightly news? Let us know in the comments!
