BREAKING: Bari Weiss has been appointed as the new editor-in-chief of CBS News, following a major acquisition deal valued at $150 million. This urgent announcement was made by Paramount Skydance CEO David Ellison on Monday, marking a significant shift in the media landscape.
The acquisition comes as a pivotal moment for CBS News, which has been seeking to revitalize its editorial direction. Weiss, who founded the online news site The Free Press, expressed her excitement about this opportunity: “I have the chance to help reshape a storied media organization,” she stated in an essay accompanying the announcement.
UPDATE: This deal culminated months of negotiations between Ellison and Weiss, first hinted at during the July 2023 Allen & Co conference in Sun Valley, known for major media mergers. The collaboration aims to guide CBS News into a future that honors journalistic integrity and independence.
Weiss, 41, is no stranger to controversy. After resigning from her position as an opinion writer for the New York Times in July 2020, she faced backlash for her views, describing her experience as “constant bullying” from colleagues. Since then, she founded The Free Press, grounded in principles of “honesty, doggedness, and fierce independence.”
In a letter to Paramount employees, Ellison emphasized the responsibility of CBS News as a steward of one of the world’s most iconic news organizations. He stated, “We are challenging ourselves to do better,” highlighting the need for bipartisan dialogue and constructive reporting.
Weiss also reached out to CBS News staff, expressing her desire to make the outlet the most trusted news organization in the United States. “I want to hear from you about what works and what doesn’t,” she stated. Her commitment to listening reflects a proactive approach to leadership, promising to engage with an “open mind, a fresh notebook, and an urgent deadline.”
The Free Press has gained notoriety for its fearless approach to journalism, with notable pieces challenging mainstream narratives. One of its significant articles featured a senior NPR editor exposing perceived progressive bias that eroded listener trust. Another highlighted the controversial treatment of vulnerable teenagers at the Washington University Transgender Center.
In a recent essay, Weiss called for dismantling institutional Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs, claiming they threaten both Jewish communities and American values.
As Weiss steps into her new role, she will report directly to Ellison and will play a crucial part in setting the editorial agenda for CBS News, which is currently positioned third in evening news ratings among US television networks.
The implications of this leadership change resonate beyond CBS News, reflecting a broader trend in the media industry where traditional outlets are striving to adapt to evolving audience demands and restore trust.
With Weiss at the helm, CBS News is poised for transformation, and the media world will be watching closely as developments unfold.
Stay tuned for updates on this significant shift in American journalism.
