CBS Exec Bari Weiss Reportedly Considering Erika Kirk to Replace Gayle King on CBS Mornings
Gayle King’s long reign at CBS Mornings may be coming to an end and the name being floated as a possible replacement is raising more than a few eyebrows.
According to multiple industry sources, CBS News editor in chief Bari Weiss is allegedly considering Erika Kirk, the widow of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, as a potential new co host for the network’s flagship morning show.
Gayle King’s Contract Under Scrutiny
Insiders say CBS is unlikely to renew Gayle King’s reported $15 million per year contract, which is set to expire in May 2026. One source told RadarOnline that network leadership is focused on cutting high salaries tied to declining ratings.
“People with big salaries and small ratings are going to be mercilessly cut, and Gayle fits the bill in both categories,” the source claimed.
That decision would mark a major shift for CBS, where King has been a central on air presence for years.
Who Is Erika Kirk?
Erika Kirk, 37, became a national figure after the tragic killing of her husband, Charlie Kirk, who was fatally shot by a sniper in Orem, Utah, on September 10.
Following his death, Erika was appointed chairwoman and CEO of Turning Point USA, the conservative organization her husband co founded. She is also a former beauty queen who competed in Miss Arizona USA and Miss USA in 2012.
In addition, Erika founded two nonprofits, Everyday Heroes Like You and BIBLEin365, and has positioned herself as a faith driven public figure.
CBS recently announced “A Townhall with Erika Kirk,” moderated by Bari Weiss, which will focus on political violence in America, the future of conservatism, faith, and the impact of her husband’s death. That announcement is what first fueled speculation that Weiss may be testing Erika for a larger role at the network.
Other Names Being Floated
Sources also say Bari Weiss has considered former Today Show co host Hoda Kotb as a possible replacement.
“Bari wants a huge name who brings warmth, credibility, and viewers. Hoda checks every box,” one insider said.
Backlash From Viewers
The idea of Erika Kirk replacing Gayle King has already sparked backlash online.
Some CBS viewers argue that if Gayle is replaced, the seat should go to another person of color, not a wealthy conservative figure with deep political ties.
“This will surely get the highest ratings in CBS history,” one commenter wrote sarcastically on the Data Lounge forum.
Another person tweeted, “CBS just lost all credibility. Jesus Christ.”
Others accused Erika of being a grifter and questioned her connection to mainstream journalism altogether.
Big Changes Ahead at CBS
While CBS has not confirmed any casting decisions, the rumors signal major changes could be coming to the network’s morning lineup.
Whether Erika Kirk, Hoda Kotb, or someone else entirely ends up in Gayle King’s chair, one thing is clear. CBS appears ready to shake things up in a very big way.