Former New York Times Writer Takes Over CBS Following Paramount Acquisition
Paramount has appointed ex- New York Times opinion writer Bari Weiss to lead CBS News, marking the latest initiative by current leadership to reshape operations of one of America's leading news networks.
Paramount is also purchasing The Free Press, the digital outlet Weiss established after her disputed separation from the New York Times, in a deal said to be worth $150 million.
Ms Weiss, who has questioned network journalism for becoming overly political, said she was eager to influence CBS, which was acquired by David Ellison earlier this year as part of a wider merger with Paramount.
Profile of the Appointee
Ms Weiss, who commenced her work at Jewish publications, is known for her advocacy of Israel and her skepticism of "woke culture".
Since its start as a digital bulletin in 2021, The Free Press has attracted 1.5 million followers, including more than 170,000 subscribing supporters.
It has received recognition for coverage such as a piece skeptical of NPR by one of its ex- business editors, as well as an investigation of some photos used by traditional journalism to illustrate famine in Gaza.
Prominent writers include historian Niall Ferguson and economic thinker Tyler Cowen.
Strategic Plans
Mr Ellison said the selection of Ms Weiss as top editorial position was part of a larger campaign to update coverage at Paramount and make CBS the "most-trusted name in news".
"We think the bulk of the country desires news that is balanced and accurate, and we want CBS to be their source," he said.
More Change at CBS
Details of the deal were not made public. Paramount would not address reports that the firm had paid $150 million in equity and currency.
Mr Ellison established his reputation as a Hollywood cinematic creator of major films such as Top Gun Maverick, True Grit and World War Z.
He has said his objective is to produce reporting that is less partisan, and therefore has the potential to connect with all viewers.
His acquisition of Paramount was approved by oversight bodies this summer, after the company consented to pay $16 million to settle a court case.
To win approval of the acquisition, Mr Ellison committed to create an independent ombudsman at CBS to assess allegations of prejudice and committed to authorities that coverage would reflect a range of perspectives.
He further said CBS's long-running political show "Face the Nation" would discontinue air edited interviews.
Partnership Details
CBS News has a collaborative arrangement with a global news organization, meaning news reporting including video footage can be shared.
In a note declaring the deal, Ms Weiss said she believed in the Paramount boss and his executive staff.
"They are committing fully because they have faith in news. Because they have bravery. Because they value this country. And because they understand, as we do, that America cannot succeed without mutual understanding, common truths, and a common reality," she wrote.