Sophia Michaels
Norah O’Donnell’s exit from “CBS Evening News” is notable, yet it appears it’s not a farewell that many will miss. After a decade as anchor and managing editor, she is embarking on new opportunities. While O’Donnell expresses excitement for what lies ahead, there seems to be a sense of relief among her colleagues, who reportedly found her less than easy to work with.
O’Donnell announced her decision in July 2024, stating she would leave her anchor role post-presidential election. CBS News & Stations’ president, Wendy McMahon, confirmed that O’Donnell will continue to contribute to the network in various capacities, including primetime specials and segments for programs like “60 Minutes.” O’Donnell feels this transition is much needed, given her long tenure in the grind of daily news. “It’s time for a change,” she acknowledged.
However, while O’Donnell anticipates her future, her departure seems to have sparked a wave of happiness among her peers. Despite her public image, her reputation in the newsroom tells a different story, with whispers indicating that her exit is welcomed for reasons she may not fully grasp.
Her resignation is seen as a positive change at CBS
In the wake of O’Donnell’s announcement, there are no grand celebrations, but there’s a distinct lack of mourning. According to reports, some CBS employees are feeling uplifted by her impending departure. A source remarked that “O’Donnell’s exit is like a breath of fresh air,” indicating her management style may have been challenging. Allegations suggest her high demands and temper contributed to a tense work environment, causing distress among staff.
This sentiment extends beyond the newsroom, with executives reportedly contemplating her replacement for years due to her show’s performance. Past reports suggested she may not have warranted her high salary given the show’s ratings. Those in power expressed that her unique working arrangement as a remote anchor didn’t sit well, citing it as an outdated model. Nevertheless, O’Donnell’s supporters at the network had publicly backed her role until very recently.
O’Donnell’s work persona has faced scrutiny
O’Donnell’s insistence on perfection allegedly mirrored the character Miranda Priestly from “The Devil Wears Prada.” With an extravagant clothing budget, she was known for extraordinary demands and even staged “dress rehearsals” before broadcasts, which often stressed her team. Reports highlighted moments of frustration, including complaints about her makeup, during challenging times like the pandemic.
This portrayal has led to her being labeled a ‘news actress,’ which O’Donnell reportedly found infuriating, claiming it undermined her professionalism. An insider shared that her anger stemmed from CBS’s failure to immediately respond to such accusations. Despite her public dismissal of these claims, it appears that O’Donnell’s resignation may have been a mutually agreed-upon decision after years of tension.
