Gayle King Will Not Be Leaving CBS Just Yet, Despite Likely CNN Deal

CBS anchor Gayle King is not yet leaving her longtime position, despite finalizing a deal with CNN.

The 68-year-old behind some of the most iconic interviews in pop culture history, including R. Kelly and Megan Thee Stallion, is reportedly part of a plan to save CNN from low ratings.  The New York Post reported King would likely join the network as part of a talk show with retired NBA pro turned analyst Charles Barkley. A fall air date is in the works. A source close to the deal said CBS might be a bit redundant to green light King’s new gig, claiming the network is “dragging its feet” with making the deal official. 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Gayle King (@gayleking)

In recent weeks, multiple outlets have confirmed that King was working with CBS on an agreement allowing her to also work at CNN. Whether they reach a deal or not, King acknowledges that she still has two years remaining on her contract that must be fulfilled. Whether or not she will leave CBS for good after that remains to be seen, and she has stayed tight-lipped aside from stating she has ‘“no intention of leaving CBS,” per Adweek. 

CNN’s CEO Chris Licht, whom King is close to, is eyeing her and other compelling on-air talents to revive viewer interest. The 9 pm and 10 pm slots are the priority at the time. 

Neither CBS nor CNN has publicly commented on King’s new gig.