Gayle King Biography: Age, Husband | Co-Host Of CBS Mornings

Gayle King: A Comprehensive Biography of the Renowned TV Personality

Gayle King, a prominent figure in American television, is a renowned broadcast journalist, author, and television personality.

She is best known for her role as co-host of CBS Mornings, the network’s flagship morning news program. 

Early Life and Education

Born in Chevy Chase, Maryland, Gayle King’s journey to becoming a media icon began with her early education.

She attended the University of Maryland, College Park, where she earned a degree in psychology. 

Career Highlights

• Early Career: Gayle began her career as a production assistant at WJZ-TV in Baltimore, where she met Oprah Winfrey, who was an anchor at the station at the time.

• WUSA-TV (Washington, D.C.): She trained as a reporter at WUSA-TV in Washington, D.C.

• WDAF-TV (Kansas City, Missouri): Gayle worked as a weekend anchor and general-assignment reporter at WDAF-TV.

• WFSB-TV (Hartford, Connecticut): In 1981, she joined WFSB-TV as a news anchor and worked there for 18 years.

• Oprah Winfrey Show: Gayle worked as a special correspondent for The Oprah Winfrey Show.

• CBS News: In 2011, Gayle joined CBS News to co-anchor CBS This Morning (now CBS Mornings). She has been a prominent figure on the show since 2012.

• Editor-at-Large: She is also an editor-at-large for O, The Oprah Magazine.

Notable Achievements

• Time Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People (2019): Gayle was named one of Time magazine’s 100 Most Influential People of 2019.

• Emmy Awards: She has won several Emmy Awards for her work in journalism.

Legacy and Impact

Gayle King’s impact on the media landscape extends beyond her television appearances.

She is an accomplished author, having written several books, including “Disrupted: How My Mighty Mother, My Powerful Father, My Brilliant Sister, and My Amazing Son Showed Me What Really Matters.”

Philanthropy

Gayle is involved in various philanthropic activities, supporting organizations focused on education, health, and the empowerment of women.

Her influence is evident in her ability to connect with viewers on a personal level.

King’s insightful questions and empathetic demeanor have made her a trusted voice in journalism.

Her contributions to CBS Mornings have helped shape the morning news landscape, making it a go-to source for information and entertainment.

Age:

Gayle King was born on December 28, 1954, making her 69 years old as of 2024. Her zodiac sign is Capricorn. She is of African-American descent and holds American nationality.

Family Background:

Gayle King was born in Chevy Chase, Maryland. Her early years were shaped by a unique international experience.

At the age of six, Gayle moved with her family to Ankara, Turkey, where her father was stationed.

This overseas exposure during her formative years provided her with a broad cultural perspective and likely contributed to her global outlook.

After spending five years in Turkey, the King family returned to the United States in 1966.

They settled back in Maryland, where Gayle continued her education and developed her interest in journalism.

Parents

Gayle’s parents played a significant role in her upbringing and career. Her father, Emmett Scott King, was an electrical engineer, which is what took the family to Turkey.

Emmett’s career in engineering and his dedication to his work were inspirational to Gayle, providing her with a strong example of professionalism and dedication.

Her mother, Peggy Tucker King, was a homemaker who ensured that the household ran smoothly despite the frequent relocations.

Peggy’s nurturing nature and support were crucial in Gayle’s development, providing a stable and loving environment for her and her siblings.

Siblings

Gayle King grew up in a close-knit family with three siblings:

• Sharon King: Not much public information is available about Sharon, but she shares the close family bond.

• Lynn King: Similarly, details about Lynn are limited in the public domain, but the King’s family values of education and hard work are evident in all the siblings.

• Caryn King: Like her siblings, Caryn maintains a private life away from the media spotlight, contributing to the family’s supportive dynamic.

Growing up in a family that valued education, professionalism, and cultural experiences helped shape Gayle into the influential and respected journalist she is today.

Husband:

Gayle King was married to William G. Bumpus, an attorney, from 1982 to 1993. Here are some details about him:

William G. Bumpus

• Background: William Bumpus was born on May 17, 1954, in Greenwich, South East London, England. He holds both American and British citizenship.

• Education: He attended Central Connecticut State University and later Yale Law School, where he earned his law degree.

• Career: William had a successful career as an attorney, eventually becoming the Assistant Attorney General of Connecticut. He worked in civil law and represented the Department of Children and Family Services in child abuse and neglect cases.

• Marriage: Gayle and William met in 1981, started dating in 1982, and got married the same year. They had two children together: Kirby Bumpus (born in May 1986) and William Bumpus Jr. (born in April 1987).

• Divorce: The couple divorced in 1993. Gayle has spoken openly about the challenges in their marriage, including issues of infidelity.

Despite the end of their marriage, William has praised Gayle for her grace and strength, and they have maintained a cordial relationship for the sake of their children.

Height:

Gayle King stands at a height of 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm). She maintains a healthy and fit figure, weighing around 150 pounds (68 kg). Her body measurements are approximately 38-29-40 inches (bust-waist-hips).

Career and Background:

Gayle King graduated from the University of Maryland, College Park, with a degree in psychology and sociology.

She began her career in journalism at WDAF-TV in Kansas City, Missouri. Over the years, she has worked at several stations, gaining recognition as an exceptional broadcaster.

Her big break came when she joined CBS in 2011, where she became a co-host of CBS This Morning (now CBS Mornings).

Early Career

• Production Assistant: Gayle began her career as a production assistant at WJZ-TV in Baltimore, where she met Oprah Winfrey, who was an anchor at the station.

• Reporter and Anchor: She trained as a reporter at WUSA-TV in Washington, D.C., and later worked as a weekend anchor and general-assignment reporter at WDAF-TV in Kansas City, Missouri.

WFSB-TV (Hartford, Connecticut)

• News Anchor: In 1981, Gayle joined WFSB-TV in Hartford, Connecticut, as a news anchor. She spent 18 years at WFSB, becoming a well-known and respected figure in the local news community.

Oprah Winfrey Show

• Special Correspondent: Gayle worked as a special correspondent for The Oprah Winfrey Show, where she gained national recognition for her insightful interviews and engaging presence.

The Gayle King Show

• Syndicated Talk Show: In 1997, Gayle was offered her own syndicated talk show, The Gayle King Show, which aired for one season. Despite its short run, the show helped solidify her reputation as a charismatic and capable host.

• XM Satellite Radio: In 2006, she began hosting The Gayle King Show on XM Satellite Radio, which ran until 2011.

CBS News

• CBS This Morning: In 2011, Gayle joined CBS News to co-anchor CBS This Morning (now CBS Mornings). She has been a prominent figure on the show since its debut in 2012, bringing her extensive experience and journalistic integrity to the program.

• Editor-at-Large: Gayle is also an editor-at-large for O, The Oprah Magazine, contributing her expertise and insights to the publication.

Notable Achievements

Gayle King has covered a wide range of significant stories and conducted numerous high-profile interviews throughout her career. Here are some of her most notable reports:

Interviews with World Leaders and Political Figures

• Former President Barack Obama: Gayle conducted an exclusive interview with Obama, discussing his post-presidency activities and his views on current political issues.

• Secretary of State Mike Pompeo: She interviewed Pompeo on various international matters and U.S. foreign policy.

Celebrity Interviews

• R. Kelly: Gayle’s interview with R. Kelly in 2019 made international headlines when Kelly became visibly upset during the interview, leading to widespread media coverage.

• Megan Thee Stallion: In April 2022, she spoke exclusively with Megan Thee Stallion about the 2020 shooting incident involving rapper Tory Lanez.

• Michelle Obama and Marian Robinson: Gayle conducted the first TV interview with Michelle Obama and her mother, Marian Robinson, in conjunction with the Book of HOV exhibit at Brooklyn Public Library.

Exclusive Reports

• Breonna Taylor Case: In October 2020, Gayle spoke exclusively with Kenneth Walker, Breonna Taylor’s boyfriend, about the night Taylor was fatally shot by police in her own home.

• Shawn “JAY-Z” Carter: In October 2023, she conducted a rare and wide-ranging interview with JAY-Z for the Book of HOV exhibit at Brooklyn Public Library.

• Tiffany Chen and Robert De Niro’s Baby: In a CBS Mornings exclusive, she spent time with Tiffany Chen and Robert De Niro’s baby, Gia Virginia Chen-De Niro, as Chen opened up about her struggle with Bell’s palsy after giving birth.

High-Profile Assignments

• Trump Administration’s Immigration Policy: Gayle led CBS News’ on-the-ground coverage from the Texas border to report on the Trump administration’s “zero-tolerance” immigration policy.

• Sandy Hook Elementary School Shooting: She reported from Newtown, Connecticut, in the aftermath of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting.

• Paris Terrorist Attacks: Gayle co-anchored CBS News’ special coverage of the Paris terrorist attacks.
• San Bernardino Shootings: She also co-anchored coverage of the San Bernardino shootings.

• Supreme Court’s Same-Sex Marriage Decision: Gayle co-anchored CBS News’ special coverage of the Supreme Court’s landmark decision to legalize same-sex marriage.

• Pulse Nightclub Mass Shooting: She co-anchored coverage of the mass shooting at the Pulse nightclub in Orlando.

Net Worth and Salary:

Gayle King’s net worth is estimated to be around $72 million as of 2024. Here’s a detailed breakdown of her main sources of income:

CBS Mornings

• Annual Salary: Gayle earns an impressive $11 million per year from her role as a co-anchor on CBS Mornings. Her salary has steadily increased over the years, reflecting her stature and influence in the industry.

O, The Oprah Magazine

• Editor-at-Large: Since 1999, Gayle has served as an editor-at-large for O, The Oprah Magazine, contributing to its success and earning a substantial income from this role.

The Gayle King Show

• OWN Network: Gayle hosted The Gayle King Show on the Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN) in 2011.

Book Royalties

• Author: Gayle has authored several books, including her memoir, which has contributed to her income through royalties.

Podcast Earnings

• Podcast Host: Gayle has also ventured into podcasting, earning additional income from her popular podcast shows.

Real Estate Investments

• Property Holdings: Over the years, Gayle has invested in various properties, including a beach house in Malibu, a condo in Miami, a cabin in the Poconos, and a farmhouse in upstate New York. These investments have significantly contributed to her net worth.

Luxury Cars

• Car Collection: Gayle owns several luxury cars, including a Rolls Royce, Porsche Macan, and Ferrari 812, adding to her overall wealth.

Charitable Donations

• Philanthropy: While not a direct source of income, Gayle’s philanthropic efforts and donations to various causes are part of her financial activities.

How did Gayle King lose weight?

Gayle King has been open about her weight loss journey. She lost almost 30 pounds in 2016 by joining Weight Watchers and following a combination of cardio and strength training.

She works out for an hour, five to six times a week, and emphasizes the importance of building muscle to burn calories more effectively.

Despite gaining some weight during the COVID-19 lockdowns, she managed to bounce back and continues to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Where is Gayle King’s net worth?

As of 2024, Gayle King’s net worth is estimated to be between $72 million and $80 million.

Her wealth comes from her successful career as a television personality, broadcast journalist, and author.

She has been co-hosting CBS Mornings since 2012 and has been an editor-at-large for O, The Oprah Magazine since 1999.

What has happened to Gayle King recently?

Recently, Gayle King made headlines for stepping out of her comfort zone during an interview with musician Shaboozey on CBS Mornings, where she tried hard liquor for the first time and didn’t enjoy it.

She also shared some TMI about her sleeping habits, revealing she prefers to sleep without underwear to feel the breeze.

Is Gayle King Married?

No, Gayle King is currently single. She was married to William G. Bumpus from 1982 to 1993, but they divorced, and since then, she has chosen to remain single.

How many biological kids does Gayle King have?

Gayle King has two biological children. She has a daughter named Wendy King and a son named William King.

How Old Is Gayle King?

Gayle King was born on December 28, 1954, which makes her 69 years old as of 2024.

Where Is Gayle King Working At?

Gayle King is currently working at CBS News. Her primary role is as the co-anchor of CBS Mornings, a position she has held since the show’s inception in 2012.

She helps shape the direction and content of the show, and has been a consistent presence alongside various rotating co-hosts.

Gayle King is active on social media. She has a presence on platforms like Instagram and Twitter, where she shares updates about her life, career, and interests. You can follow her to get insights into her daily activities and thoughts.