John Dickerson Exits CBS News After 16 Years: A Major Shake-Up!

After more than a decade and a half, beloved journalist John Dickerson is saying goodbye to CBS News by the end of this year. This high-profile departure is sparking big conversations about the future of the network, especially the "CBS Evening News" desk.

TL;DR

• Veteran journalist John Dickerson is leaving CBS News at the end of 2025 after 16 years.
• His departure comes less than a year after he started co-anchoring "CBS Evening News," amid struggling ratings and significant leadership changes at the network.
• While Dickerson didn't state a reason, his exit follows the controversial hiring of Bari Weiss as editor-in-chief and his own past criticisms of network decisions.

A Surprising Announcement From a CBS News Veteran

Well, folks, hold onto your remotes! Longtime CBS News journalist John Dickerson made a big announcement on Monday, October 27, 2025: he's leaving the network after a stellar 16-year run. You might know him best from his recent gig co-anchoring "CBS Evening News" or perhaps from his time moderating "Face the Nation" and co-hosting "CBS This Morning." Wherever you've seen him, his thoughtful, analytical style has been a staple of CBS's news coverage.

Dickerson shared the news himself on social media, expressing gratitude for his time at the network. He plans to continue co-anchoring the flagship evening newscast right up until the holidays, so you've still got a bit more time to catch him on air before he officially signs off.

"At the end of this year, I will leave CBS, sixteen years after I sat in as Face the Nation anchor for the first time. I am extremely grateful for all that CBS gave me — the work, the audience’s attention and the honor of being a part of the network’s history — and I am grateful for my dear colleagues who’ve made me a better journalist and a better human. I will miss you."

— John Dickerson, via social media

John Dickerson's Impressive Journey Through the Ranks

John Dickerson's career at CBS News has been nothing short of impressive, covering a wide range of roles and making a significant impact. He joined the network back in 2009, initially stepping in as an anchor for "Face the Nation," where he eventually became the full-time moderator. His deep political understanding and incisive interviewing style quickly made him a viewer favorite.

Before joining the "CBS Evening News" desk in January of this year alongside Maurice DuBois, Dickerson also spent time as a co-anchor on "CBS This Morning." Plus, he served as the network's political director and chief political analyst, offering his expertise during critical election cycles. He's also been a regular contributor to "60 Minutes" and even moderated CBS News' two presidential primary debates. Oh, and did we mention he interviewed former President Donald Trump nearly 20 times during his CBS tenure? Talk about getting the scoop!

The Bigger Picture: What's Driving This Departure?

While Dickerson's social media post was gracious and focused on gratitude, it didn't explicitly state why he's choosing to leave. However, media insiders and news reports are buzzing with speculation, pointing to a confluence of factors that have been reshaping CBS News in recent months.

New Leadership Brings Significant Strategic Shifts

One of the biggest factors likely influencing Dickerson's decision is the recent change in leadership at CBS News. Earlier this month, conservative political commentator Bari Weiss was tapped as the new editor-in-chief. This hire has been a hot topic, especially given Weiss's background as an opinion writer and her lack of traditional broadcast journalism experience. Her arrival marks the first major shake-up since Paramount, CBS's parent company, was acquired by billionaire David Ellison's Skydance Media in August.

Weiss, who reports directly to Paramount CEO David Ellison, is reportedly tasked with revamping the network's news operations. Some reports suggest she's keen on bringing in new talent, with rumors even swirling about an interest in Fox News anchor Bret Baier for a key role like the "Evening News" anchor spot. Though Baier himself has publicly stated he's "very happy at Fox" and under contract, the mere speculation highlights the significant changes potentially ahead for CBS.

"CBS Evening News" Ratings Struggles and Format Concerns

Let's be honest, the "CBS Evening News" hasn't had the easiest time lately. Since Dickerson and Maurice DuBois took over as co-anchors in January, the program has continued to struggle in the ratings, consistently ranking third behind its rivals on ABC and NBC. This season alone, the show has reportedly averaged under 4.2 million total viewers, marking a 10% dip and the steepest decline among the major evening newscasts.

Internally, sources have described the two-anchor format as "clunky," "awkward," and even lacking "chemistry." This feedback from both viewers and top brass might have played a role in the network's strategic rethinking, potentially paving the way for further changes.

Dickerson's Stance on Journalistic Integrity

It's also worth noting that John Dickerson has been an outspoken advocate for journalistic integrity. Earlier this year, he publicly criticized Paramount's multimillion-dollar settlement with former President Trump's administration over a "60 Minutes" interview with then-presidential candidate Kamala Harris. Dickerson didn't mince words, using his platform on "CBS Evening News Plus" to question the implications of such a settlement:

"We pride ourselves on our BS detector, so it ought to work on ourselves, too. When it doesn’t, the stakes are real, a loss of public trust, the spread of misinformation. The Paramount settlement poses a new obstacle. Can you hold power to account after paying it millions? Can an audience trust you when it thinks you’ve traded away that trust? The audience will decide that."

— John Dickerson, on CBS Evening News Plus

This strong stance on editorial independence, combined with the new ownership's perceived political leanings (David Ellison and his father Larry Ellison are reportedly friendly with President Trump, and Bari Weiss is known for her conservative views), could certainly have contributed to a challenging environment for Dickerson.

A Pattern of High-Profile Departures and Network Instability

Dickerson's exit isn't an isolated incident. Several other prominent figures have left CBS News in recent months, especially following the change in ownership and leadership. A longtime "60 Minutes" executive producer departed in April, citing a loss of journalistic independence. The president and CEO of CBS News also resigned in May, stating that "the company and I do not agree on the path forward."

Furthermore, Paramount Skydance is reportedly bracing for significant layoffs across the company, aiming to cut over $2 billion in costs. This climate of uncertainty and sweeping changes could naturally lead experienced journalists like Dickerson to seek new opportunities.

What's Next for the "CBS Evening News" and Its Remaining Anchor?

With John Dickerson heading out, the future of the "CBS Evening News" is once again up in the air. Many observers believe his departure likely signals the end of the two-anchor format, which, as mentioned, hasn't quite hit the mark with viewers or critics.

The big question is, what happens to Maurice DuBois, Dickerson's co-anchor? As of now, his future with the program remains unclear. However, network executives, including Bari Weiss and CBS News president Tom Cibrowski, are reportedly already interviewing candidates for the anchor job. Internally, "CBS Mornings" co-anchor Tony Dokoupil has been floated as a frontrunner. While some might wonder if former anchor Norah O'Donnell could make a return, sources close to the situation suggest that's "not going to happen."

CBS News President Tom Cibrowski released a statement acknowledging Dickerson's departure, saying, "After 16 years at CBS News and contributing to every program here, John Dickerson has decided to step away at the end of the year. John epitomizes the very best of journalism." He added that the network would have "plenty of time to thank him for his work here and honor his contributions to our success" before the holidays.

A Shifting Landscape for the "Tiffany Network"

John Dickerson's departure truly marks a significant moment for CBS News, often dubbed the "Tiffany Network" for its storied journalistic tradition. His exit, coupled with the new leadership under Bari Weiss and David Ellison, signals a period of profound transformation. The network is clearly looking to shake things up and find a new direction, but the path forward remains to be seen. It's a fascinating time for media watchers, and we'll be keeping a close eye on how these changes unfold and what they mean for the future of one of America's most iconic news organizations.

Frequently Asked Questions About John Dickerson's Departure When is John Dickerson officially leaving CBS News? John Dickerson is expected to leave CBS News at the end of this year (2025). He will continue to co-anchor "CBS Evening News" until the holidays. Why is John Dickerson leaving CBS News? Dickerson did not state a specific reason for his departure in his social media announcement. However, his exit comes amid significant leadership changes at CBS News, including the recent hiring of Bari Weiss as editor-in-chief, and follows his public criticisms of network decisions regarding journalistic integrity. Who will replace John Dickerson on "CBS Evening News"? The future plans for "CBS Evening News" are currently unclear. It is widely speculated that the two-anchor format will end. CBS News executives are reportedly interviewing candidates, with "CBS Mornings" co-anchor Tony Dokoupil mentioned as an internal frontrunner. Maurice DuBois's future as an anchor is also uncertain. How long has John Dickerson been at CBS News? John Dickerson has been with CBS News for 16 years, joining the network in 2009. Sources

• Various news reports from October 27, 2025, detailing John Dickerson's announcement and the surrounding context.
• John Dickerson's social media post (Monday, October 27, 2025).
• Statements from CBS News President Tom Cibrowski.