Katie Couric Says Goodbye To CBS Nightly News

One of the most noticeable news anchor personalities is leaving her post to pursue different dreams. So what is she up to next?

One of the most high-profile media courtships may soon be consummated: Katie Couric is closing in on a deal with Walt Disney Co.'s ABC to host an afternoon talk show.Couric, who anchored the CBS Evening News for the last time Thursday night, would begin her new syndicated show in the fall of 2012, according to people familiar with the negotiations who were not authorized to speak publicly about them.

Some of the major deal points have been hammered out, although there are still outstanding issues surrounding compensation. The agreement is not expected to be finalized for at least a week. Couric's contract with CBS ends June 6.

CBS, which until a few weeks ago had also been vying to distribute Couric's proposed syndicated show, has the right to match any offer to Couric before her contract ends. The network has not yet waived that right, nor is it expected to make a counteroffer, said these people with knowledge of the situation.

Disney Chief Executive Robert A. Iger has been "very involved" in the deal, the people said. He has been particularly interested in bringing Couric to ABC, in part, to fill the programming void that will be created by the departure of the queen of daytime TV, Oprah Winfrey. Disney's ABC-owned stations carrry "The Oprah Winfrey Show," which will broadcast its last episode Wednesday.

"Speculation around Katie is exciting, but there is no new deal to announce," said Couric's spokesman, Matthew Hiltzik.