Deborah Norville has signed a multiyear deal with CBS Television Distribution to remain anchor of the studio’s hit newsmagazine “Inside Edition.”

The deal comes on the heels of CBS’ recent renewal of “Inside Edition” through the 2011-2012 season on stations around the country.

“When Deborah joined ‘Inside Edition’ 12 years ago, she reinvigorated the show with her sharp interview skills and strong news judgment,” said Roger King, CEO of CBS Television Distribution. “I’m happy that she’ll continue to be the face of the show for years to come.”

Ms. Norville joined the popular newsmagazine strip in 1995 after more than a decade in the television news industry.

“Inside Edition” has been on a tear this season, scoring a 3.5 national household ratings average, according to Nielsen Media Research, and recently earning a season-best 3.7. Coverage of Anna Nicole Smith’s death two weeks ago is expected to launch the show’s numbers to even higher peaks when ratings are unveiled Wednesday.

“We have a history with our viewers,” said Ms. Norville. “‘Inside Edition’ has been part of the television viewer’s world for a generation now and there is an incredible amount of trust that goes with that. Even with the current coverage of Anna, we try to tell it in a non-sensational way. We make a point of talking about the water-cooler stories of the day, but we work hard not to abuse stories that are disturbing to our viewers.”

Previously, Ms. Norville worked at CBS News, where she anchored “America Tonight” and reported for “48 Hours,” “Street Stories” and “CBS Evening News.” She also hosted her own nationally syndicated radio show, “The Deborah Norville Radio Show,” and was co-host of NBC’s “Today.” Over the course of her career, Norville has won two national Emmys, a local Emmy and the American Women in Radio and Television’s Gracie Award, which recognizes women’s achievements in the TV and radio industries.

“Deborah’s solid news background and willingness to get in the trenches are a huge part of this show’s success,” said “Inside Edition” executive producer Charles Lachman. “I can’t think of anyone I’d rather have lead our news team.”

(Editor: Horowitz)