Katie Couric Talking New Deal with CBS? Not Yet

Yesterday, we linked to a story from Bloomberg which reported (using some slippery language) that “CBS Evening News” anchor Katie Couric and CBS have begun “preliminary talks” about a new contract.

That report may have been a bit off-base.

“It is premature” someone familiar with the situation tells TVNewser. “It is way too early in the process.”

Indeed, the New York Post reports today that Couric and CBS will likely begin talks next month, which makes sense, given the May expiration of her current deal.

While it is still too soon to tell what CBS would offer the anchor, it is a safe bet that even if Couric accepts a lower base salary, there would likely be other sources of income that could offset any losses. Possibilities include a production deal, or an enhanced digital presence, or more primetime appearances.

And of course, Couric could leave CBS altogether if she gets a more compelling offer from someplace else.

“There has been interest from a wide range of outlets, across the spectrum” our source says.

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