Gayle King, the celebrated anchor of CBS Mornings, has finally spoken out about swirling rumors that she’s being ousted from her role—a move that could shake up the morning TV landscape.

For days, speculation mounted after Variety published a report claiming King would be removed from CBS Mornings once her contract expires in May.

The report cited unnamed sources and came amid other high-profile departures at CBS, including evening news anchor John Dickerson, as the network undergoes a major overhaul under new editor-in-chief Barry Weiss.

Despite the noise, King’s reaction was calm and measured. After a live broadcast where she reported on King Charles stripping Prince Andrew of his royal titles, Gayle was approached by TMZ as she left the building. She stated, “All I’ve been told by everybody in this building is that they want me here. They like the job I’m doing. I like the job I’m doing.

I like the job and the people that I work with. So, I don’t know what to tell you.” King emphasized her commitment to the show and her colleagues, refusing to negotiate her future in the press: “What I’m hearing in the building is not what I’m reading in the press and what I’m not going to do is negotiate in the media. Not doing that.”

CBS quickly responded to Variety’s report, stating, “There have been no discussions with Gayle about a contract that runs through May 2026. She’s a truly valued part of CBS and we look forward to engaging with her about the future.” The network’s statement contradicted the rumors and suggested that King’s position is secure, at least for now.

The timing of the rumors is notable. CBS is currently the number three morning show, but its fortunes improved dramatically after King joined as anchor.

Before her arrival, CBS Mornings was struggling for relevance and ratings. King’s reputation for landing exclusive interviews—such as recent sit-downs with Cardi B, Mariah Carey, and Doja Cat, and a rare interview with Jay-Z—has made the show a destination for major celebrities. Insiders and viewers alike recognize that artists aren’t coming to CBS Mornings for the network itself, but for Gayle King.

Yet, with sweeping changes at CBS and new leadership eager to make their mark, speculation persists. Networks sometimes make drastic decisions to signal change, even if those moves are risky or unpopular. Some wonder if Variety jumped the gun, lumping King into a wave of layoffs and contract non-renewals.

King’s measured response hints that she’s aware of deeper dynamics at play behind the scenes. Her choice not to fuel the media fire, coupled with CBS’s public support, suggests she’s not going anywhere soon.

Still, her next move—whether she stays, leaves, or pivots to a new venture—could reshape the morning television landscape. For now, Gayle King remains at CBS Mornings, glad to be there and focused on her work, even as rumors swirl and the industry watches for her next step.