Former New York Times Writer to Lead CBS After Paramount Deal
The media conglomerate has named ex- New York Times opinion writer Bari Weiss to direct CBS News, representing the newest step by new owners to reshape operations of a prominent American news networks.
Paramount is additionally purchasing The Free Press, the digital outlet Weiss started after her disputed separation from the New York Times, in a agreement said to be worth $150 million.
Ms Weiss, who has questioned television news for becoming overly political, said she was excited to influence CBS, which was taken over 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 recognized for her advocacy of Israel and her skepticism of "call-out culture".
From its inception as a newsletter in 2021, The Free Press has attracted 1.5 million readers, including in excess of 170,000 subscribing supporters.
It has garnered notice for coverage such as a piece skeptical of NPR by one of its ex- business editors, as well as an examination of some photos used by traditional journalism to depict famine in Gaza.
Prominent writers include historian Niall Ferguson and economist Tyler Cowen.
Future Direction
Mr Ellison said the appointment of Ms Weiss as editor-in-chief was part of a broader initiative to modernize coverage at Paramount and make CBS the "most credible name in news".
"We think the majority of the country longs for news that is fair and accurate, and we want CBS to be their home," he said.
Additional Shifts at CBS
Details of the agreement were not revealed. Paramount would not address accounts that the corporation had paid $150 million in shares and money.
Mr Ellison built his career as a Hollywood cinematic creator of blockbusters such as Top Gun Maverick, True Grit and World War Z.
He has said his aim is to produce coverage that is more balanced politically, and therefore has the potential to engage all demographics.
His acquisition of Paramount was approved by regulators this season, after the company consented to pay $16 million to conclude a legal action.
To obtain consent of the transaction, Mr Ellison agreed to install an independent ombudsman at CBS to review complaints of prejudice and vowed to regulators that coverage would showcase a variety of opinions.
He additionally said CBS's established political show "Face the Nation" would cease to air edited interviews.
Partnership Details
CBS News has a partnership agreement with an international broadcaster, meaning news reporting including visual material can be distributed.
In a note revealing the arrangement, Ms Weiss said she had faith in the Paramount leader and his management group.
"They are making significant investments because they believe in news. Because they have bravery. Because they cherish this country. And because they appreciate, as we do, that America cannot thrive without shared information, universal realities, and a unified worldview," she wrote.
