Veteran Journalist Matt Gutman Joins CBS News as Chief Correspondent

Veteran journalist Matt Gutman is leaving ABC News to join CBS News in a major career move. The network announced he will serve as chief correspondent, starting January 5, 2026, based in Los Angeles.

New Role at CBS News

Gutman will report across the CBS News platform. He will appear on CBS Mornings and the CBS Evening News. In addition, he will be a lead correspondent for “48 Hours” and contribute to future seasons of “60 Minutes.” He will also serve as a fill‑in anchor on major network broadcasts.

CBS News editor‑in‑chief Bari Weiss praised Gutman’s reporting style, saying he brings fearlessness, energy, and a strong connection to audiences. CBS News president Tom Cibrowski noted Gutman’s sharp news sense and immersive storytelling.

Career and Experience

Gutman has covered major global events for nearly three decades. He has reported from conflict zones, natural disasters, and high‑profile breaking news scenes. These include the Israel‑Hamas conflict, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the COVID‑19 pandemic, and numerous climate and disaster events.

He joined ABC News in 2008 as a correspondent. Before that, he worked internationally as a print reporter, including covering the Middle East.

Throughout his career, Gutman has earned multiple journalism awards, including Emmys, Edward R. Murrow Awards, DuPont Awards, Gracie Awards, and honors from the National Association of Black Journalists.

Past Challenges

While at ABC News, Gutman faced public scrutiny over reporting errors. In 2020, he was suspended after incorrectly saying that all four of Kobe Bryant’s children died in the helicopter crash; only Bryant and his daughter Gianna were on board. He corrected the record and apologized.

He also faced a suspension in 2021 for violating COVID‑19 safety rules by entering a hospital without prior authorization.

Despite these episodes, industry publications note his wide experience and recognition in frontline reporting.

What’s Next

Gutman’s move marks one of the first high‑profile on‑air talent hires under Bari Weiss at CBS News. He joins the network as it continues to expand its newsroom and enhance its national reporting presence.

In his new role, Gutman said he is excited to join a network with a long legacy and ambitious future. He emphasized his goal to tell important stories and bring audiences along with him to critical news events.