Scott Pelley announces retirement from CBS Evening News after 30-year tenure.
New York, NY – After three decades with the network, veteran journalist Scott Pelley has officially announced his retirement from his role as anchor and managing editor of the CBS Evening News, effective immediately. The 67-year-old newsman, who has been a fixture in American broadcast journalism since the 1990s, made the decision to step down citing a desire to focus on long-form storytelling and investigative reporting.
Who? Scott Pelley, a Peabody and multiple Emmy Award-winning correspondent, is stepping away from the evening news desk.
What? Pelley is retiring from the anchor chair to take on a new role as a senior correspondent for 60 Minutes, where he will continue to contribute to the magazine program.
When? The announcement was made on Thursday, October 26, 2023, with Pelley’s final broadcast as anchor scheduled for the end of the week.
Where? The news was delivered during a broadcast from the CBS Broadcast Center in New York City, where the network’s flagship news program originates.
Why? Pelley stated that he believes the nightly news format is evolving and that he wishes to dedicate more time to the in-depth, narrative-driven projects that have defined his career.
“For three decades, I have had the profound privilege of bringing the world to our viewers every night,” Pelley said in a statement released by CBS. “As news consumption changes, I feel it is time to return to my roots in long-form journalism, where I can explore stories with the depth they deserve.”
A CBS spokesperson confirmed that the network will begin a search for a permanent successor, with interim anchors expected to fill the evening news slot in the interim. Pelley’s tenure was marked by a steadfast commitment to journalistic integrity, particularly during his coverage of the Iraq War, Hurricane Katrina, and the 9/11 attacks. His departure leaves a significant void in the evening news landscape, as