Former New York Times Journalist Takes Over CBS Following Paramount Deal
The media conglomerate has appointed former NYT commentator Bari Weiss to lead CBS News, signaling the most recent initiative by recent acquirers to reshape operations of a prominent American news networks.
Paramount is furthermore purchasing The Free Press, the web-based platform Weiss established after her contentious separation from the New York Times, in a agreement estimated to be worth $150 million.
Ms Weiss, who has challenged broadcast media for becoming too partisan, said she was eager to shape CBS, which was purchased by David Ellison earlier this year as part of a broader merger with Paramount.
Profile of the Appointee
Ms Weiss, who commenced her work at Jewish publications, is noted for her advocacy of Israel and her skepticism of "call-out culture".
Since its start as a digital bulletin in 2021, The Free Press has attracted 1.5 million subscribers, including over 170,000 paid subscribers.
It has received recognition for coverage such as a piece critical of NPR by one of its ex- business editors, as well as an examination of some images used by mainstream news outlets to illustrate famine in Gaza.
Prominent contributors include scholar Niall Ferguson and economist Tyler Cowen.
Future Direction
Mr Ellison said the selection of Ms Weiss as chief editor was part of a broader initiative to modernize content at Paramount and make CBS the "most credible name in news".
"We are convinced the majority of the country desires news that is balanced and fact-based, and we want CBS to be their source," he said.
Further Developments at CBS
Terms of the deal were not revealed. Paramount declined to comment accounts that the company had paid $150 million in shares and money.
Mr Ellison established his reputation as a Hollywood film producer of blockbusters such as Top Gun Maverick, True Grit and World War Z.
He has said his objective is to produce journalism that is less partisan, and therefore has the potential to engage all demographics.
His purchase of Paramount was authorized by government authorities this summer, after the company consented to pay $16 million to settle a legal action.
To obtain consent of the acquisition, Mr Ellison pledged to establish an external reviewer at CBS to review complaints of prejudice and vowed to authorities that content would showcase a variety of opinions.
He also said CBS's established political show "Face the Nation" would discontinue air modified discussions.
Partnership Details
CBS News has a collaborative arrangement with an international broadcaster, meaning news material including video footage can be shared.
In a message declaring the arrangement, Ms Weiss said she trusted in the Paramount boss and his management group.
"They are committing fully because they support news. Because they have bravery. Because they cherish this country. And because they appreciate, as we do, that America cannot thrive without shared information, agreed principles, and a shared perspective," she wrote.
