Former NYT Columnist Takes Over CBS After Paramount Deal
Paramount has named ex- New York Times columnist Bari Weiss to direct CBS News, representing the newest initiative by recent acquirers to reorganize operations of a prominent American news networks.
Paramount is additionally acquiring The Free Press, the online publication Weiss established after her contentious departure from the New York Times, in a deal estimated to be worth $150 million.
Ms Weiss, who has criticised network journalism for becoming excessively biased, said she was excited to shape CBS, which was purchased by David Ellison in recent months as part of a broader merger with Paramount.
History of the Executive
Ms Weiss, who began her professional journey at Jewish news outlets, is recognized for her advocacy of Israel and her skepticism of "woke culture".
Beginning as a email publication in 2021, The Free Press has attracted 1.5 million followers, including more than 170,000 subscribing supporters.
It has garnered notice for articles such as a piece questioning of NPR by one of its former business editors, as well as an investigation of some images used by established media to depict famine in Gaza.
Notable writers include historian Niall Ferguson and economic thinker Tyler Cowen.
Future Direction
Mr Ellison said the hiring of Ms Weiss as top editorial position was part of a broader initiative to modernize programming at Paramount and make CBS the "most credible name in news".
"We believe the bulk of the country wants news that is balanced and fact-based, and we want CBS to be their destination," he said.
More Change at CBS
Details of the agreement were not disclosed. Paramount would not address reports that the company had paid $150 million in shares and money.
Mr Ellison made his name as a Hollywood cinematic creator of blockbusters such as Top Gun Maverick, True Grit and World War Z.
He has said his goal is to produce coverage that is less partisan, and therefore has the ability to connect with all viewers.
His purchase of Paramount was authorized by regulators this season, after the company agreed to pay $16 million to settle a lawsuit.
To secure clearance of the acquisition, Mr Ellison agreed to establish an independent ombudsman at CBS to review allegations of partiality and vowed to authorities that coverage would include a range of perspectives.
He further said CBS's long-running political show "Face the Nation" would discontinue air modified discussions.
Alliance Facts
CBS News has a collaborative arrangement with another major network, meaning news material including visual material can be exchanged.
In a message announcing the agreement, Ms Weiss said she had faith in the Paramount leader and his management group.
"They are doubling down because they support news. Because they have bravery. Because they cherish this country. And because they understand, as we do, that America cannot thrive without mutual understanding, common truths, and a unified worldview," she commented.
