Did Norah O’Donnell Leave CBS News After More Than a Decade?

Norah O’Donnell is best known as the anchor of CBS Evening News. But as of January 23, 2025, that is no longer the case. The television host and veteran journalist announced her departure from the show in July 2024, so does this mean that she left the CBS News division altogether?

Some viewers at home were shocked when Norah signed off on her last broadcast. In an emotional 2025 “farewell” speech, Norah acknowledged that CBS Evening News is “the longest-running evening newscast in America, and it has been powered by the finest journalists around the world — the correspondents, producers and researchers and crews who work tirelessly to bring you the news every night.”

“And that won’t change, because journalism matters,” Norah emphasized. “I know that, because I have heard it from so many of you viewers.”

Learn all about Norah’s departure and what this means for CBS News below.

Did Norah O’Donnell Leave CBS News?

Norah is leaving CBS Evening News after more than a decade, but CBS clarified that she is not leaving the network itself.

“After five years in the anchor chair, @NorahODonnell signs off from the CBS Evening News tonight,” the program tweeted on January 23, 2025. “Her reporting has not only made history, but also resonated deeply with viewers across the nation. This isn’t goodbye — Norah will remain a vital part of the CBS News family as a senior correspondent.”

For the final time, @NorahODonnell signs off from the CBS Evening News. pic.twitter.com/4IU9Htj1sY

— CBS Evening News (@CBSEveningNews) January 24, 2025

Why Did Norah O’Donnell Leave CBS Evening News?

In July 2024, Norah formally announced her decision to step down from the evening news program. According to a letter to staffers, the journalist wrote, “After this year’s election, I’ve decided I will be leaving my role as anchor and managing editor of the CBS Evening News to take on a new position at the network.”

“There’s so much work to be proud of! But I have spent 12 years in the anchor chair here at CBS News, connected to a daily broadcast and the rigors of a relentless news cycle,” Norah noted, before pointing out her reason for leaving — “It’s time to do something different.”

Norah will remain on the CBS News network as a senior correspondent.

“I’ll still be anchoring all of our major coverage this year, election night and hopefully a debate! Beyond that, I’m pleased to share that I have made a long-term commitment to CBS News to continue to do the same storytelling and big interviews that have been our hallmark,” the Washington D.C. native said. “I will continue to contribute to Evening News and all of our news broadcasts, including 60 Minutes.”

Is CBS Evening News Cancelled?

No, CBS Evening News has not been canceled. However, Norah is being replaced by 60 Minutes alum John Dickerson and CBS member Maurice DuBois.