Update: Gayle King Finalizing Deal w/ CNN As Network Fights Against Lowest Ratings In Decades

Gayle King

Update: Gayle King Finalizing Deal w/ CNN As Network Fights Against Lowest Ratings In Decades

Update: (Mar. 27, 2023): It looks like Gayle King will definitely be coming to your TV screens from a CNN studio soon!

New reports have confirmed the famed journalist, who’s currently an anchor for “CBS Mornings,” is finalizing a deal with CNN to host a weekly prime-time show. Reportedly, she’s expected to split the hosting duties with former NBA player Charles Barkley. As of now, the series is set for a fall premiere.

Good news for watchers of “CBS Mornings,” insiders close to the matter have said that Gayle King won’t fully be walking away from her role on the morning program and will work on both shows simultaneously.

Reports of Gayle King joining the CNN family come amid claims that the news channel’s CEO Chris Licht is looking for ways to increase low ratings. According to reports, this month CNN hit its lowest monthly rating in the past three decades among adults 25 to 54, a key demographic for advertisers.

A source previously spoke on Gayle King joining CNN and said,

“At CNN she would instantly get the benefit of a massive marketing campaign and the full focus of a prime-time spotlight. She’s also a big fan of Charles — and the feeling is mutual.”

[VIA]

Original story: (Mar. 9, 2023): It looks like Gayle King might have a new gig lined up!

According to reports, television personality Gayle King is “seriously considering” an offer by CNN CEO Chris Licht to host a prime-time talk show with Charles Barkley.

Licht and CNN execs have offered the 68-year-old a contract to host a prime-time talk show alongside the NBA legend in an attempt to boost the networks’ ratings.

A source said,

“It’s an attractive offer for Gayle because her own show continues to trail Good Morning America and Today in the morning talk show ratings — despite her personal popularity.”

They continued,

“At CNN she would instantly get the benefit of a massive marketing campaign and the full focus of a prime-time spotlight. She’s also a big fan of Charles — and the feeling is mutual.”

Gayle King

During a recent interview, the NBA star turned sports analyst confirmed the reports of the possibility of him working for CNN.

He said,

“They are trying to pair Gayle King and me. We don’t have anything set in stone. I’m only considering it because of my respect for Gayle.”

Barkley added,

“I just want to help the company because obviously it is a sh*t show right now. Anything I can do to help.”

Charles Barkley

CNN honcho Chris Licht is under pressure as the network is experiencing its lowest rating in decades.

According to a source,

“Chris needs a win — and he needs it fast — or his job could be on the line.” 

Last year, CNN was hit with back-to-back scandals with President Jeff Zucker and prime-time anchor Chris Cuomo both leaving in the wake of sexual misconduct allegations.

Chris Cuomo

As previously reported, Chris Cuomo was fired from CNN in December 2021, after news broke of his involvement with his brother’s — former New York governor Andrew Cuomo — alleged sex allegation PR cover-up.

Another shake-up included CNN host Don Lemon getting the boot from his prime-time talk show to instead host a morning show, a decision that left many questioning Licht.

With all the recent controversy surrounding CNN, it is safe to say a deal with Gayle King and Charles Barkley is just what the network needs to garner more ratings.

A source said,