CBS anchor Tony Dokoupil drew backlash after using the slang term “rawdogging” during live coverage of the papal conclave, sparking debate over appropriateness in broadcast journalism and adding to a series of recent on-air controversies involving the anchor.

In a moment that has ignited social media and left viewers both amused and bewildered, CBS Mornings co-anchor Tony Dokoupil made a surprising remark during the network’s coverage of the papal conclave on May 7, 2025.

As the world watched the gathering of 133 cardinal-electors in Vatican City, tasked with selecting a new pope, Dokoupil’s attempt at humor took an unexpected turn, leading to widespread reactions online.

During a segment featuring papal contributor John Allen, who was explaining the norms of the voting process, Dokoupil interjected with a phrase that many found inappropriate.

Allen had just described how the cardinals occupy their time during the voting—reading their breviaries or praying rosaries—when he noted that they certainly wouldn’t be checking Instagram, as their electronic devices had been confiscated.

In response, Dokoupil quipped, “I believe the kids call it ‘rawdogging it,’” suggesting that the cardinals were enduring a period without their gadgets in a rather unconventional way.

His comment, which typically refers to engaging in sexual activity without protection, elicited immediate laughter from his panel, including Vatican analyst Delia Gallagher and co-anchors Norah O’Donnell, Maurice DuBois, Seth Doane, and Chris Livesay.

However, the laughter quickly turned into a wave of criticism as viewers took to social media to express their shock and disapproval.

One user tweeted, “Kinda gross that CBS is using rawdogging like that,” while another lamented, “I’m going to have to ask CBS to never allow the word ‘rawdogging’ on their airwaves again.”

The fallout from Dokoupil’s comment was swift. Many viewers shared their discomfort, with one person humorously stating, “I had to explain to my mom what rawdogging was.

And now I will have to explain to my grandmother thanks CBS.” The incident raised questions about whether the anchor was aware of the term’s connotations before using it in such a public setting.

Comments ranged from disbelief to outright condemnation, with one viewer even suggesting that the network was “severely lacking in class.”

Adding to the intrigue surrounding Dokoupil, this incident follows a series of awkward moments in his broadcasting career. Earlier this year, he found himself in a tense exchange with actor Jason Isaacs during an interview about his role in HBO’s hit series The White Lotus.

When Dokoupil inquired about the use of prosthetics for Isaacs’ full-frontal nudity scene, the actor took offense, questioning why such topics were being discussed.

Dokoupil defended his line of questioning, arguing that if prosthetics were standard for actresses, it would be a valid topic of discussion.

In another recent interview, Dokoupil faced backlash for asking NFL coach Bill Belichick about the significant age difference between him and his 24-year-old girlfriend, Jordon Hudson.

Hudson swiftly shut down the inquiry, indicating that Belichick would not be addressing the question, leaving Dokoupil to awkwardly acknowledge the discomfort surrounding the topic.

As the papal conclave continues, the focus will likely remain on the cardinals and their deliberations, but the echoes of Dokoupil’s comment will linger in the minds of viewers.

The juxtaposition of a serious religious event with a flippant remark about modern slang underscores the challenges anchors face in balancing humor with sensitivity, particularly when discussing topics as significant as the election of a new pope.

While some may find humor in Dokoupil’s comment, others are calling for more decorum in such serious contexts.

The incident serves as a reminder of the fine line broadcasters must walk when engaging with contemporary language and cultural references, especially in settings steeped in tradition and reverence.

As social media buzzes with reactions, it remains to be seen how CBS will address the fallout from this incident. Will they issue a statement, or will they allow the moment to fade into the background as the conclave progresses?

One thing is certain: Tony Dokoupil’s offhand remark has sparked a conversation that extends far beyond the walls of the Sistine Chapel, touching on issues of appropriateness, cultural sensitivity, and the evolving nature of language in our society.

With the cardinals now deep in their deliberations, the world watches closely, not only for the outcome of the papal election but also for how media figures like Dokoupil navigate the complexities of modern discourse in their reporting.

As the conclave unfolds, viewers will undoubtedly continue to reflect on the intersection of faith, tradition, and contemporary culture, all while keeping a keen eye on the latest developments from the Vatican.