Bari Weiss Appointed Editor in Chief of CBS News Amid Major Paramount Skydance Overhaul Sources Reveal
Bari Weiss Set to Take Helm at CBS News Amid Strategic Shakeup
In a bold move poised to reshape the landscape of CBS News, Bari Weiss, a notable former opinion writer at The New York Times, is expected to be named editor in chief of the network. This decision, closely linked to Paramount Skydance’s acquisition of Weiss’s rising news platform, The Free Press, is anticipated to come to fruition in the coming days, though the timing remains subject to change.
Bari Weiss’s Impact on CBS News’ Editorial Direction
Weiss, who is known for her contrarian editorial style, will report directly to David Ellison, CEO of Paramount Skydance. This arrangement bypasses the traditional chain of command, notably excluding Tom Cibrowski, the current president of CBS News. The shift highlights a potential change in the editorial direction of CBS’s news division as Weiss takes on a leadership role.
What the Acquisition of The Free Press Means for CBS
The acquisition of The Free Press, valued at approximately $150 million, is part of Paramount Skydance’s broader strategy. Although The Free Press is expected to remain an independent entity within Paramount’s portfolio, Weiss’s influence could soon make its mark on CBS News’ style and approach.
Controversy and Reaction Within CBS News
- Tension has been reported among CBS News staff, who have expressed concerns about potential shifts in editorial bias.
- The arrival of Weiss, a figure often associated with anti-elitism and a challenge to traditional media narratives, could disrupt established routines.
- Programs like “60 Minutes” might face significant changes under Weiss’s influence, potentially shifting the show’s longstanding format.
Looking Forward: Strategic Goals and Editorial Changes
Sources indicate that Weiss’s primary focus will be on expanding the diversity of viewpoints within CBS News, likely introducing more conservative perspectives to counterbalance perceptions of a liberal bias. This strategic shift aligns with recent efforts by David Ellison to bring broader political discourse to the network.
The appointment of Kenneth R. Weinstein as CBS News ombudsman is an early step in addressing long-standing bias complaints, a condition set by the Federal Communications Commission during the recent merger process.
Resolving Legal and Political Knots at CBS News
The network has recently settled a $16 million lawsuit with former President Donald Trump over alleged biased editing in a “60 Minutes” interview. An extra $20 million in advertising for pro-MAGA support was part of a package devised by Ellison to smooth over the legal dispute.
Beyond this, Paramount has had to manage internal controversies related to its Middle East coverage, notably during interviews and segments that stirred strong reactions from the Jewish community and beyond.
As Weiss takes the helm, all eyes will be on how she navigates both the internal dynamics of CBS News and the broader media landscape. The coming months are likely to bring both challenges and opportunities as she seeks to leave her mark on one of America’s leading news networks.
