Gayle King won’t be leaving the news business any time soon, if ever.
Byron Allen honored King with the Icon Journalist Award at TheGrio’s gala in Washington DC on Saturday, and the busy host told him she wants to work even harder.
Said King, who was previously honored with the Walter Cronkite Award for Excellence in Journalism, at the National Museum of African American History and Culture: “I stand before you at 68 years of age. Walter Cronkite had to retire from CBS at age 65… He had no choice.”
She added: “I’m not even thinking about retiring. Not even a little! I’m looking for more work.”
King recently announced that he will host a new CNN show with Charles Barkley in addition to juggling a SiriusXM radio show and, of course, hosting “CBS This Morning.” (We think you have enough on your plate, Gayle!)
King had a great opening act before receiving her award: Diana Ross performed a mini concert that included her hits “Upside Down,” “I’m Coming Out,” “The Boss” and “Stop! by Supremes.” In the name of love.”
Allen also introduced Grio talent and journalists, including “Queen of the White House” April Ryan, who has covered five presidents, Touré, Marc Lamont Hill, Natasha Alford and former “The Real Housewives of New York” star. City” Ebony K. Williams.
Allen told King when he finally followed the other reporters: “I just wanted to show you what you birthed… You’re the one who opened the door… Everyone on this stage owes you a huge debt of gratitude.”
Allen also noted how King has “elevated CBS mornings.” “They weren’t working well. The show died in the morning. You gave it life and now CNN”, which is also struggling, she said.
King explained how she was expected at the CBS White House Correspondents Dinner after-party, quipping: “Personal note. Don’t ever follow Byron Allen or Diana Ross because I came in and said, ‘Byron, I really have to go!’”
Governor Wes Moore, Nikole Hannah Jones, Bevy Smith, Melba Wilson, motivational speaker Hope Giselle, CNN’s Sara Sidner, Areva Martin, “GMA3” executive producer Cat McKenzie, attorney Ben Crump and “Sherri” executive producer Jawn Murray were also in attendance.
