Buzz Builds That Couric Is Eyeing Exit from CBS

Katie Couric, who isn't even halfway through her five-year/$15-million-per pact with CBS, may vacate the Evening News anchor chair the instant the ink is dry on the next U.S. president's inauguration papers (assuming there are papers to be signed when one becomes leader of the free world). According to the Wall Street Journal, with Evening News ratings floundering and Eye execs under increasing pressure to cut costs, Couric could be gone by January 2009 — and, as previously reported, perhaps sliding behind Larry King's desk at CNN. (Who could replace Katie at CBS? Read The Biz for the likely candidates.)A CBS News rep responded to this latest buzz by saying, "We are very proud of the CBS Evening News... and we have no plans for any changes regarding Katie or the broadcast." Couric herself issued this statement: "I am working hard and having fun. My colleagues continue to impress me with their commitment to the newscast, and I am very proud of the show we put on every day." What...

TV GuideNews April 10, 2008 at 10:14 a.m. PT