Gayle King is one of America’s most recognizable broadcast journalists, admired for her warmth, professionalism, and enduring friendship with Oprah Winfrey. In 2025, as she approaches her 71st birthday, she continues to be a household name. This article dives into her net worth, career journey, lifestyle, family, and personal milestones, painting a full picture of who Gayle King is today.
Quick Bio
👤 Full Name: Gayle King
🎂 Date of Birth: December 28, 1954
📅 Age (2025): 70 years old
🏡 Birthplace: Chevy Chase, Maryland, USA
📏 Height: 5 ft 10 in (178 cm)
🌎 Nationality: American
🎓 Education: University of Maryland, College Park
💼 Profession: Broadcast Journalist, Author
💰 Net Worth (2025): $40-$80 million
💵 Annual Salary: $10-$11 million
💍 Marital Status: Divorced (William Bumpus, 1982-1993)
👩👧 Children: Kirby Bumpus, William Bumpus Jr.
🚀 Notable Achievement: Blue Origin Spaceflight, 2025
📱 Instagram: @gayleking
Early Life and Education
Born on December 28, 1954, in Chevy Chase, Maryland, Gayle King spent much of her childhood abroad, particularly in Turkey, where her father worked as an electrical engineer. She later returned to the U.S. and graduated with a degree in psychology from the University of Maryland, College Park. These early experiences helped shape her worldview and fueled her curiosity about people and stories.
Career Beginnings
Gayle’s career started modestly at WJZ-TV in Baltimore as a production assistant, where she met a young Oprah Winfrey. Their friendship would later become one of the most famous bonds in American media. From behind the scenes, Gayle quickly worked her way into on-air roles, reporting and anchoring for local stations in Washington, D.C., Kansas City, and Hartford.
Rise to Prominence
Her 18-year tenure at WFSB in Hartford, Connecticut solidified her reputation as a skilled anchor and journalist. Gayle expanded her reach with talk shows, magazine work, and radio hosting. She also became editor-at-large for O, The Oprah Magazine, further cementing her connection with Oprah’s media empire.
In 2012, Gayle made her biggest career leap, becoming co-anchor of CBS This Morning (now CBS Mornings). Her balanced reporting style and empathetic interviews made her a trusted voice for millions of viewers.
Net Worth in 2025
As of 2025, Gayle King’s net worth is estimated between $40 million and $80 million. The variation comes from different sources, but most agree that her annual salary at CBS ranges between $10 million and $11 million. Her wealth comes from her broadcast salary, magazine work, book deals, speaking engagements, and wise investments. Over the years, her contracts with CBS have placed her among the highest-paid news anchors in the U.S.
Salary and Earnings
From 2014 to 2019, Gayle earned about $30 million at CBS, averaging $5.5 million annually. In later years, her earnings increased, with reports suggesting contracts worth up to $13 million per year at her peak. Even after network cost adjustments, she remains one of the highest-paid women in journalism, securing her position as a top media figure.
Lifestyle and Properties
Gayle’s wealth is reflected in her elegant lifestyle. She has owned a 10,000-square-foot estate in Greenwich, Connecticut, and a Manhattan penthouse worth about $7 million. Her homes showcase sophistication and comfort, reflecting her personality both on and off screen. Gayle is also known to enjoy luxury travel, frequently vacationing with Oprah and friends at exclusive destinations like Mallorca.
Cars and Assets
Beyond real estate, Gayle has a taste for stylish cars. Reports highlight her collection, which includes vehicles like a Range Rover Vogue, Ford Mustang GT Convertible, and a Tesla Model Y. These choices mirror her mix of classic appeal and modern innovation.
Family and Personal Life
Gayle married attorney William Bumpus in 1982, and the couple divorced in 1993. They share two children: Kirby Bumpus (born 1986) and William Bumpus Jr. (born 1987). Kirby is now married with a child, making Gayle a proud grandmother. Gayle has often been candid about her life as a single mother, balancing career and family with grace.Her close friendship with Oprah Winfrey remains one of the most celebrated partnerships in media. Oprah has described Gayle as the sister she never had, and their decades-long bond continues to inspire audiences.
Physical Appearance
Standing at around 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm), Gayle is striking in her presence. She often embraces bold fashion choices, with colorful dresses and chic hairstyles that highlight her lively personality. Her radiant smile and confidence have become part of her signature look.
Public Influence and Achievements
Gayle has been recognized for her journalism, including being named one of Time’s 100 Most Influential People in 2019 and inducted into the Broadcasting & Cable Hall of Fame in 2018. In April 2025, she achieved a new milestone by joining Blue Origin’s all-female crewed flight into space a historic and inspiring accomplishment.
Social Media Presence
Gayle connects with millions through her active Instagram account (@gayleking). She shares glimpses into her professional life, travel adventures, and time spent with family and friends. Her posts strike a balance between polished and personal, keeping her relatable to fans.
Fun Facts
- Gayle grew up in Turkey before moving back to the U.S.
- She once admitted that the biggest thrill of her career was interviewing major figures like Barack Obama and Meghan Markle.
- In 2025, after returning from space, she joked that her next bucket-list goal was to “get married.”
- She has a love for books and often shares reading recommendations.
FAQs
What is Gayle King’s net worth in 2025?
Her net worth is estimated between $40 million and $80 million, with most sources agreeing on around $40 million.
How tall is Gayle King?
Gayle is approximately 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm) tall.
Who are Gayle King’s children?
She has two children, Kirby Bumpus and William Bumpus Jr., and one grandson, Luca.
What is Gayle King known for?
She is best known as co-anchor of CBS Mornings, her editorial work at O Magazine, and her close friendship with Oprah Winfrey.
Did Gayle King go to space?
Yes, in April 2025 she joined Blue Origin’s all-female crewed mission, making history as a journalist.
