In 2022, Megan Thee Stallion penned the song “Her.” It is an unapologetic anthem about authenticity, being a boss, and having complete ownership over the things in life. And considering her massive life, Gayle King personifies the song’s deeper meaning.
Originally from Chevy Chase, MD, King has spent many years in front of the screen as one of journalism’s who’s who. According to PBS, King’s early work included her 18-year run as an on-air news anchor for WFSB-TV, a Hartford, CT, affiliate of CBS. During that time, she also had a syndicated daytime program.
The acclaimed journalist has also partnered with her high-profile best friend, Oprah Winfrey, previously hosting “The Gayle King Show,” which aired on OWN and SiriusXM. King still works as editor at large for Oprah Daily.
However, her spot as co-host on “CBS Mornings” has had the most significant impact on her career. She has engaged in several high-profile interviews, targeting major pop culture topics with people such as Tina Turner, President Barack Obama, Dave Chappelle, and more.
While she has earned several awards and deeply cemented herself as a mainstay in the industry, the 68-year-old has no plans to retire soon.
“I stand before you at 68 years old. Walter Cronkite had to retire from CBS at 65… He didn’t have a choice,” King said during an awards speech per a Page Six report.
“I’m not even kind of thinking about retiring. Not even kind of! I’m looking for more work,” she continued.
Doubling down on her desire to work, King is co-hosting a new show with NBA legend Charles Barkley. According to USA TODAY, King and Charles will co-host the show “King Charles,” airing in fall 2023 on CNN.
“This show will be an exciting new way we are delivering culturally relevant programming and unique perspectives to our audience from two incredibly dynamic personalities,” CNN CEO Chris Licht shared.
King’s long resume and continued work have afforded her an estimated $40 million net worth, according to Celebrity Net Worth.
When she is not being “her” on screen, she enjoys life as a mother and grandmother. And King’s spotlight has not stopped her two children from forging their own paths.
Kirby Bumpus
Kirby Bumpus is King’s oldest child and only daughter. Her Instagram lists various interests, including traveling, fitness, and a good tequila. Professionally, Kirby works as head of social impact and inclusion for Sweetgreen.
Kirby was also a past speaker for SXSW and a blogger for MyFitnessPal.
Although her life is busy with adventure and motherhood, one of her most fulfilling roles is that of mother. Kirby introduced a son, Luca, with her husband, Virgil Miller. Baby Luca is King’s first grandchild.
William Bumpus Jr.
William Bumpus Jr. is King’s only son and has led a relatively private life. According to Closer Weekly, William lives in Santa Monica, CA, and graduated from Duke University.
William’s LinkedIn profile further shows that he earned a MBA from Stanford University, and is the founder of reWerk — an organization aimed at bringing more diverse representation to tech, bridging the digital divide.
William also is a partner at Concrete Rose Capital.
Additionally, William and King can be seen across her social media enjoying activities like hiking and concerts.
