> At a Glance
> – Gayle King celebrated 14 years on CBS Mornings by rewearing the custom yellow dress she first wore in 2012
> – The annual tradition started spontaneously and continues as a personal milestone
> – King’s contract ends in May 2026, with no official word on her future
> – Why it matters: Viewers see a rare, heartfelt ritual amid industry uncertainty
Every January, Gayle King pulls the same bright yellow dress from her closet and steps onto the CBS Mornings set. On Friday, Jan. 9, she marked 14 years on the program by slipping into the custom Alex Kramer design once more.
The Dress That Started a Ritual
King, 71, told viewers she chose yellow for day one because it felt like her “happy place.” The spontaneous decision evolved into an annual habit: she wears the dress only on her anniversary.
> “I don’t know why I started doing it, but I said, ‘I’m only going to wear this dress on my anniversary.’ I love it so much.”
The designer has since closed shop, yet the garment survives-seams stressed and all. King jokes that older photos show the fabric practically pleading for mercy, yet the memories outweigh any fraying.
Contract Countdown and On-Air Affection
Rumors suggest King might exit when her deal expires in May 2026 amid broader network shifts. On air, she brushed off speculation, insisting chatter inside the building differs from headlines.
Co-anchor Nate Burleson addressed the noise directly:
> “It seems like these days, everybody has something to say about you… we love you dearly. We appreciate your contributions, not just to this show but to this network.”
King replied she remains “alert and available,” then pivoted to gratitude for the crew and viewers who wake up with the team.
Anniversary Highlights
- Year 1: Yellow debut on Jan. 9, 2012
- Year 14: Same dress, same smile, Jan. 9, 2025
- Future: CBS executive already teased, “Can’t wait for your 20th!”
King closed the segment laughing at how fast the years have flown, promising-as long as the seams hold-to keep the tradition alive.
**Key Takeaways
- King’s yellow dress is a 14-year symbol of continuity on CBS Mornings
- She had the piece custom-made and limits its wear to each anniversary
- Contract uncertainty looms, but on-air tributes signal strong internal support
- Viewers can expect the same sunny look next January-if the dress survives
Time flies when you’re having fun, and King plans to keep flying in yellow.
