28 Facts About Gayle King

Early Life and Education

Gayle King, a prominent television personality, has a fascinating background. Here are some intriguing facts about her early years and education.

1. 01

   Born on December 28, 1954, in Chevy Chase, Maryland, Gayle King spent part of her childhood in Turkey due to her father's work as an electrical engineer.

2. 02

   King attended the University of Maryland, where she earned a degree in psychology and sociology. Her academic background laid the foundation for her insightful interviewing style.

3. 03

   During her college years, she interned at WTOP-TV in Washington, D.C., which sparked her interest in journalism.

Career Beginnings

Gayle King's career in media began long before she became a household name. Let's explore some key moments from her early career.

4. 04

   King started her career as a production assistant at WJZ-TV in Baltimore, where she met her lifelong friend, Oprah Winfrey.

5. 05

   She later worked as a reporter and weekend anchor at WDAF-TV in Kansas City, Missouri, honing her skills in front of the camera.

6. 06

   In 1981, King joined WFSB in Hartford, Connecticut, where she worked for 18 years, eventually becoming a news anchor.

Rise to Fame

King's career took off as she became more involved in high-profile projects and collaborations. Here are some notable milestones.

7. 07

   In 1991, she co-hosted a daytime talk show, "Cover to Cover," which, although short-lived, showcased her talent for engaging with audiences.

8. 08

   King became a special correspondent for "The Oprah Winfrey Show" in 1997, covering major events and conducting high-profile interviews.

9. 09

   In 1999, she launched "The Gayle King Show" on the Oxygen network, further establishing her presence in the media industry.

CBS This Morning

Gayle King's role on "CBS This Morning" has solidified her status as a leading journalist. Here are some highlights from her time on the show.

10. 10

    King joined "CBS This Morning" as a co-anchor in 2012, alongside Charlie Rose and Erica Hill.

11. 11

    Her interview with R. Kelly in 2019, where she remained composed despite his outburst, received widespread acclaim and showcased her professionalism.

12. 12

    Under her co-anchorship, "CBS This Morning" has seen a significant increase in viewership and has become a trusted source of news.

Awards and Recognition

King's contributions to journalism have not gone unnoticed. She has received numerous accolades throughout her career.

13. 13

    In 2008, she was inducted into the Broadcasting & Cable Hall of Fame, recognizing her impact on the industry.

14. 14

    King received the Walter Cronkite Award for Excellence in Journalism in 2019, highlighting her dedication to truthful reporting.

15. 15

    Time magazine named her one of the 100 most influential people in the world in 2019, underscoring her influence and reach.

Personal Life

Beyond her professional achievements, Gayle King's personal life is equally interesting. Here are some facts about her life outside of work.

16. 16

    King married William Bumpus in 1982, and they have two children together, Kirby and William Bumpus Jr.

17. 17

    She is an avid reader and often shares book recommendations with her audience, promoting a love for literature.

18. 18

    King is known for her close friendship with Oprah Winfrey, which has spanned over four decades.

Philanthropy and Advocacy

King is also deeply involved in various charitable causes and advocacy efforts. Here are some of her contributions.

19. 19

    She supports numerous organizations, including the United Negro College Fund and the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.

20. 20

    King has used her platform to advocate for social justice issues, including racial equality and women's rights.

21. 21

    She has participated in fundraising events and campaigns to support education and healthcare initiatives.

Fun Facts

There are some lesser-known, fun facts about Gayle King that add to her vibrant personality.

22. 22

    King is a self-proclaimed foodie and enjoys exploring new restaurants and cuisines.

23. 23

    She has a passion for fashion and is often seen wearing bold, colorful outfits on air.

24. 24

    King loves to travel and has visited numerous countries around the world, often sharing her adventures with her fans.

Recent Endeavors

King continues to evolve and take on new challenges in her career. Here are some of her recent projects and achievements.

25. 25

    In 2020, she signed a new contract with CBS News, ensuring her continued presence on "CBS This Morning."

26. 26

    King launched a podcast, "The Gayle King Show," where she discusses current events and interviews notable guests.

27. 27

    She has been actively involved in covering major news events, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the 2020 presidential election.

28. 28

    King remains a prominent figure in the media industry, known for her integrity, professionalism, and ability to connect with audiences.

Gayle King's Impact

Gayle King’s influence in media is undeniable. From her early days in journalism to her current role on "CBS This Morning," she’s shown resilience, talent, and a knack for connecting with audiences. Her interviews, especially the one with R. Kelly, have become iconic moments in television history. Beyond her professional achievements, Gayle’s friendship with Oprah Winfrey has been a testament to loyalty and support, inspiring many. Her advocacy for important social issues and her ability to handle tough conversations with grace make her a standout figure in the industry. Gayle King isn’t just a journalist; she’s a trailblazer who continues to shape the landscape of media. Her story is one of perseverance, dedication, and a genuine passion for storytelling. As we look to the future, Gayle’s legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire and influence generations to come.