CBS News boss Bari Weiss has big plans for Norah ODonnell: report

Norah O’Donnell could be headed back to familiar territory at CBS News, with the former “Evening News” anchor emerging as a contender for the open third seat on “CBS Mornings,” according to a report.The 52-year-old journalist — whose stature inside the network has grown since Bari Weiss took over as editor in chief — is in the running for the morning gig after a series of recent fill-in appearances, Status reported.The newsletter also cited sources claiming O’Donnell has sought to “ingratiate herself” with Weiss.The Post first reported in February that O’Donnell’s return to “CBS Mornings” had sparked chatter inside the network about a possible comeback to the anchor desk after a seven-year hiatus.At the time, sources told The Post that network higher-ups, including Weiss, had asked O’Donnell to guest host alongside Gayle King and Nate Burleson as brass weighed an overhaul of the last-place morning program.A source close to CBS threw cold water on the speculation at the time, insisting O’Donnell was not being considered for the permanent gig and was simply part of a rotating cast of fill-ins.But other insiders weren’t buying it.Now, O’Donnell is among a handful of candidates under serious consideration to permanently fill the third co-host chair left vacant when Tony Dokoupil decamped for the “CBS Evening News” in January, Status reported.Status reported that Weiss is said to “very much like” O’Donnell, while describing the veteran journalist as a reliable anchor with broad experience.O’Donnell isn’t the only name being kicked around.Status identified Eva Pilgrim, Elisabeth Hasselbeck and CBS News anchor Kelly O’Grady as other candidates for the opening.No decision has been made, according to the report.

Status also reported that Weiss is fond of O’Donnell, potentially giving the veteran CBS journalist an advantage as brass weighs its options.CBS News brass has not made a decision, the report said.A rep for the ...