Former New York Times Journalist Takes Over CBS Post Paramount Merger
The media conglomerate has appointed ex- NYT commentator Bari Weiss to direct CBS News, representing the latest step by new owners to restructure activities of a major US news networks.
Paramount is also purchasing The Free Press, the online publication Weiss started after her acrimonious separation from the New York Times, in a deal estimated to be worth $150 million.
Ms Weiss, who has questioned network journalism for becoming overly political, said she was enthusiastic to put her stamp on CBS, which was acquired by David Ellison earlier this year as part of a larger merger with Paramount.
Background of the Appointee
Ms Weiss, who commenced her work at Jewish publications, is noted for her backing of Israel and her skepticism of "woke culture".
Since its start as a digital bulletin in 2021, The Free Press has accumulated 1.5 million readers, including in excess of 170,000 paying members.
It has received recognition for reports such as a feature questioning of NPR by one of its former business editors, as well as an investigation of some photos used by mainstream news outlets to illustrate famine in Gaza.
Notable authors include academic Niall Ferguson and economic thinker Tyler Cowen.
Future Direction
Mr Ellison said the selection of Ms Weiss as editor-in-chief was part of a broader effort to update content at Paramount and make CBS the "most-trusted name in news".
"We believe the greater part of the country longs for news that is balanced and accurate, and we want CBS to be their source," he said.
More Change at CBS
Terms of the arrangement were not disclosed. Paramount declined to comment accounts that the company had paid $150 million in stock and cash.
Mr Ellison established his reputation as a Hollywood film producer of major films such as Top Gun Maverick, True Grit and World War Z.
He has said his aim is to produce reporting that is less politically skewed, and therefore has the potential to connect with all viewers.
His acquisition of Paramount was cleared by government authorities this recent period, after the company committed to pay $16 million to conclude a legal action.
To win approval of the acquisition, Mr Ellison committed to establish an independent ombudsman at CBS to review complaints of prejudice and committed to authorities that programming would showcase a variety of perspectives.
He also said CBS's long-running political show "Face the Nation" would cease to air modified discussions.
Partnership Details
CBS News has a collaborative arrangement with an international broadcaster, meaning news material including recorded segments can be exchanged.
In a statement announcing the agreement, Ms Weiss said she had faith in the Paramount executive and his executive staff.
"They are doubling down because they support news. Because they have bravery. Because they love this country. And because they appreciate, as we do, that America cannot succeed without common facts, agreed principles, and a unified worldview," she commented.
