Tony Dokoupil’s transition to the role of anchor for “CBS Evening News” has not gone unnoticed, generating substantial buzz as he embarks on this new chapter. In a short span, Dokoupil, who previously co-hosted “CBS Mornings,” has laid out his vision for the news program, subtly critiquing his revered predecessor Walter Cronkite, and making headlines with an unconventional debut focused on a significant defense issue rather than a celebratory tour.
At 45 years old, Dokoupil steps into a legacy that includes journalism giants like Cronkite, Dan Rather, Katie Couric, Scott Pelley, and Norah O’Donnell. Traditionally, “CBS Evening News” enjoyed viewership numbers peaking at 29 million during Cronkite’s era. However, the show now finds itself lagging behind competitors with a current audience averaging around 4.04 million viewers—less than half the size of ABC’s David Muir’s audience.
In a series of messages shared last week, Dokoupil expressed a commitment to regaining trust in the media among American viewers, criticizing mainstream reporting that, he believes, has overlooked the perspectives of ordinary citizens in favor of politically biased narratives. He emphasized that the audience should come first, aligning his reporting with the needs of the public rather than political or corporate interests.
His commitment to straightforward news is illustrated by five principles for “CBS Evening News,” although his claim of “We love America” has sparked debate online, leading some to suggest that the new direction may align more with conservative interests under CBS News’ leadership.
Critics have had mixed reactions to Dokoupil’s approach and the content of his inaugural broadcast, which included a significant interview with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. Some felt he missed opportunities to challenge Hegseth more directly. Discussions around his statement that his show would facilitate a “daily conversation” about America have met skepticism from media experts who argue that journalism should be straightforward rather than conversational.
As opinions diverge, with conservative figures expressing cautious optimism over potential accountability from Dokoupil, others see the efforts as a branding move rather than a substantive overhaul. His comments regarding Cronkite’s era and a publicity stunt aimed at correcting the pronunciation of his name have further fueled discussion on his positioning in the industry.
Longtime news producer Tom Bettag, who worked alongside Cronkite, believes it’s too early to definitively judge Dokoupil’s performance. While acknowledging a rocky start, he urges patience, emphasizing that CBS needs Dokoupil’s success to revitalize a program that has faced significant challenges in recent years.
Ultimately, Dokoupil’s approach will shape not only his career but the future trajectory of “CBS Evening News,” and as he faces critics and supporters alike, viewers will determine if his vision resonates in the increasingly competitive landscape of broadcast journalism.