Norah O’Donnell is one of the most influential journalists in American television. With a career spanning over two decades, she has conducted groundbreaking interviews, tackled pressing political issues, and held some of the most powerful figures accountable. As the face of CBS Evening News, she was among the few women to anchor a national evening newscast, a position long dominated by men.

However, in a stunning turn of events, O’Donnell’s future at CBS shifted dramatically. Reports of internal power struggles, declining ratings, and high costs led to her removal as the lead anchor in early 2025. But was this simply a network decision, or was there more behind the scenes? From her rise to prominence to the controversies surrounding her exit, here’s a closer look at the untold story of Norah O’Donnell.

A Journalist Destined for Greatness

Born on January 23, 1974, in Washington, D.C., O’Donnell’s upbringing was deeply influenced by discipline and intellectual rigor. Her father, a U.S. Army officer and doctor, instilled a strong work ethic in her. She spent part of her childhood in South Korea, where she got her first experience in broadcasting by recording English lessons for the Korean Educational Development Institute at just 10 years old.

After earning a degree in philosophy from Georgetown University, she quickly entered the world of political journalism, working for Roll Call before transitioning to NBC News. Her sharp analysis and commanding on-air presence earned her high-profile roles, including Chief White House Correspondent and a prominent contributor to The Today Show.

By 2011, she had joined CBS News, quickly rising to the top. In 2019, she became the anchor of CBS Evening News, solidifying her status as one of the most authoritative voices in American journalism.

Her Tenure at CBS: A Trailblazer in the Industry

O’Donnell’s leadership at CBS Evening News brought prestige and credibility. Under her watch, the show became known for exclusive, high-profile interviews. Her interview with Pope Francis in 2024 marked a historic moment, as he rarely sat for extended discussions with American journalists. She also grilled President Joe Biden on foreign policy, leadership, and judicial reforms, further cementing her reputation for fearless questioning.

Her in-depth reporting extended to humanitarian crises and major global events, including coverage from the Ukraine border during the Russian invasion. She also tackled major social issues, including sexual assault in the U.S. military, leading to policy changes within the Department of Defense.

Yet, despite her journalistic achievements, O’Donnell faced mounting challenges—both inside and outside the newsroom.

Internal Power Struggles and Costly Contracts

Despite her credibility, O’Donnell’s time at CBS Evening News was marred by reports of internal friction. Some insiders described her as “too assertive” and “demanding”, while others argued that her leadership style was simply misinterpreted in a male-dominated industry.

Additionally, her $8 million annual salary made her one of the highest-paid network anchors. As viewership for CBS Evening News lagged behind competitors like ABC’s World News Tonight and NBC’s Nightly News, network executives questioned whether maintaining such a high-cost anchor was financially viable.

Her Departure: Was It Personal, Professional, or Both?

In January 2025, CBS officially announced that O’Donnell would be stepping down as the anchor of CBS Evening News after the presidential election. The network opted to replace her with two male anchors, John Dickerson and Maurice DuBois, a move that sparked backlash from those who saw it as a setback for women in media.

However, O’Donnell’s departure was not just a result of network restructuring. She had also faced a deeply personal battle—one that changed her outlook on life.

Her Cancer Battle and New Perspective on Life

In 2016, O’Donnell received devastating news: she had melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. After years of constant exposure to the sun as a child, her diagnosis was a wake-up call. The cancer was caught early, but she underwent painful surgery to remove it.

This experience reshaped her priorities. While she remained dedicated to journalism, she also became a passionate advocate for skin cancer awareness, urging people to get regular screenings.

By 2024, after more than two decades of nonstop reporting, she made a personal decision to step away from the nightly grind. Unlike her predecessor, Katie Couric, who jumped to another network after leaving CBS, O’Donnell chose to stay within CBS but focus on investigative reporting and special projects.

Where Is Norah O’Donnell Now?

Although she no longer anchors CBS Evening News, O’Donnell remains a powerhouse in journalism. She has shifted her focus to producing in-depth investigative reports for CBS and 60 Minutes, allowing her to pursue deeper, long-form storytelling without the daily demands of an evening newscast.

Beyond journalism, she continues to spend more time with her husband, renowned chef Geoff Tracy, and their three children, finding a new balance between career and family.

The Legacy of Norah O’Donnell

Norah O’Donnell’s story is one of tenacity, influence, and reinvention. She shattered barriers in a male-dominated industry, conducted some of the most defining interviews of the decade, and redefined what it means to be a modern journalist.

Her departure from CBS Evening News wasn’t the end—it was a transformation. With her continued commitment to investigative reporting, advocacy, and shaping the next generation of journalists, O’Donnell’s legacy is far from over.

Her career raises a bigger question: Does success in journalism depend solely on ratings, or is there room for fearless reporting, regardless of industry politics?

What do you think about Norah O’Donnell’s journey? Was her exit from CBS Evening News a strategic decision or a sign of deeper industry challenges? Share your thoughts below.