CBS Evening News Viewership Drops by Over a Million After Bari Weiss Takes Charge
The “CBS Evening News” program has seen a significant decline in viewership since the recent leadership changes. The show’s new anchor, Tony Dokoupil, took over at the beginning of January, and within his first week, it lost over a million viewers compared to the same period last year. This decline highlights a broader trend under the influence of Bari Weiss, who became editor-in-chief in October.
Viewership Statistics
Data from Nielsen reveals the following viewership statistics:
- Average viewership dropped from 5.4 million to approximately 4.17 million.
- Viewership among audiences aged 25 to 54 decreased by nearly 25%, from 690,000 to 533,000.
Context of the Decline
Under Weiss’s editorial leadership, CBS has shifted towards a more Trump-friendly stance. This change coincided with Dokoupil’s promotion as anchor, succeeding Norah O’Donnell. Analysts suggest that this shift has alienated viewers traditionally captivated by the program’s content.
Controversial Editorial Decisions
Weiss’s tenure has already faced scrutiny due to several controversies. One notable incident occurred in December when a planned episode of “60 Minutes” was abruptly canceled. The broadcast aimed to expose harsh conditions in an El Salvador prison where many immigrants were held.
New Tone and Guest Selection
In just a few weeks, Dokoupil has introduced various right-wing guests, indicating a tonal shift in the program. For instance, during a recent segment, he presented lighthearted AI-generated images of Secretary of State Marco Rubio in humorous outfits. This was met with approval from the White House, reflecting potential alignment with political narratives.
Implications for CBS Evening News
The significant drop in viewership raises questions about the network’s direction. Weiss reportedly urged her team to focus on creating “viral potential” rather than solely delivering the news. This strategy has raised concerns about content integrity and viewer engagement.
As CBS navigates these changes, the future of “CBS Evening News” remains uncertain. The ongoing response from audiences will likely influence its direction in the coming weeks and months.
