How Much Is Gayle King Paid for ‘CBS Mornings’?
Gayle King has become the defining face of CBS Mornings, known for her warm yet incisive interview style and commanding on-screen presence. As co-host of the network’s flagship morning show, King delivers a mix of hard-hitting journalism and human interest storytelling that connects with millions of viewers. Since joining CBS Mornings in 2011, she has helped shape the program’s identity. Now, rumors are swirling that King might depart from the network. So, how much does she get paid to co-host the show? Here’s what to know.
What is Gayle King’s annual salary for ‘CBS Mornings’?
Gayle King has served as co‑anchor of CBS Mornings since November 2011, guiding the show through multiple format changes and co‑host lineups. Over her more than a decade‑long tenure, she has become synonymous with the program, earning accolades such as the Walter Cronkite Award for Excellence in Journalism.
In recent months, reports have emerged suggesting that King’s role at the network may change. Sources cited by Variety claim her contract, reported to expire in May 2026, may not be renewed in its current form. This could lead her to transition into a different role at CBS News or develop her own programming.
If the rumors are true, how much money is King potentially giving up with her salary? According to TMZ, King makes over $10 million a year as a CBS Mornings co-host. RadarOnline reports King makes even more — $15 million annually. TMZ notes that King’s salary may have something to do with the network’s potential decision to part ways. Additional sources alleged that CBS is looking to hire talent from Fox News Channel to take King’s place.
Gayle King addressed the rumors about her future with ‘CBS Mornings’
TMZ caught up with Gayle King to discuss the rumors surrounding her future with CBS Mornings. According to King, everything she’s heard personally is contrary to what she’s read in the press.
“All I can say is this — from what I’m being told, inside this building … all I’ve been told by everybody in this building is that they want me here; they like the job I’m doing,” King told the publication. “I like the job I’m doing. I’ll tell you this: I like the job and the people that I work with. So, I don’t know what to tell you. But, what I’m hearing in this building is not what I’m reading in the press.”
“And what I’m not going to do is negotiate it in the media. Not doing that!”
TMZ then asked King if she knows what the show may look like if they’re headed “in another direction” without her.
“I have no idea,” she said. “All I know is, I am here. I am here and glad to be here.”
CBS says they have not had ‘discussions’ with the co-host about the show
Despite the current discussions online, CBS stated that they haven’t discussed the future of CBS Mornings with Gayle King.
“There have been no discussions with Gayle about her contract that runs through May 2026,” a CBS News spokesperson said in a statement, according to People.
“She’s a truly valued part of CBS and we look forward to engaging with her about the future.”
Only time will tell whether King will remain with the morning show that she’s known for. Meanwhile, CBS continues to shake up the network with various changes. They canceled The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, which officially comes to an end in May 2026. Additionally, CBS Evening News anchor John Dickerson announced his departure in October 2025.
