From watching the mixed success of both Katie Couric (who has grown into her anchor role) and Charlie Gibson (who never seemed to shed his blandness), it seems that the real criteria for a news anchor is gravitas. Whereas the morning shows seem to value people comfortable as infotainment vessels, evening news is supposed to be about serious topics.

I think Diane Sawyer is a good choice, not because of her gender but because of her qualifications. Sadly, that still seems a novel concept for far too many people.