Scott Pelley to Step Down as CBS Evening News Anchor After Sixteen Years at the Helm
NEW YORK (AP) — In a major shift for the network, CBS News announced today that Scott Pelley will be stepping down as anchor and managing editor of the "CBS Evening News," a role he has held since 2011. Pelley, a veteran journalist and 60 Minutes correspondent, will transition to a full-time role at the network's prestigious news magazine.
The announcement, delivered from the network's headquarters, confirmed that Pelley's final broadcast as the face of the evening newscast will take place this summer. Sources indicate the decision was mutual, allowing Pelley to focus on long-form reporting and investigative journalism.
Pelley's tenure was marked by a focus on hard news, international reporting, and a commitment to thorough fact-checking, though ratings faced increasing competition from other networks and digital platforms. His departure signals a broader realignment within CBS News as it seeks to adapt to evolving viewer habits.
The search for a permanent successor is underway, with network executives emphasizing a desire for a "digital-savvy" anchor to lead the program into a new era. Pelley reportedly leaves with the gratitude of the network for his steady leadership during a period of transition in media.