Ex- New York Times Columnist Appointed to Head CBS After Paramount Merger
The media conglomerate has named former NYT opinion writer Bari Weiss to lead CBS News, representing the latest move by current leadership to restructure operations of a prominent American news outlets.
Paramount is additionally 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 challenged television news for becoming excessively biased, said she was excited to put her stamp on CBS, which was purchased by David Ellison earlier this year as part of a larger merger with Paramount.
Background of the Executive
Ms Weiss, who began her professional journey at Jewish media organizations, is recognized for her backing of Israel and her criticism of "woke culture".
From its inception as a digital bulletin in 2021, The Free Press has attracted 1.5 million readers, including more than 170,000 subscribing supporters.
It has garnered notice for articles such as a article skeptical of NPR by one of its ex- business editors, as well as an analysis of some photographs used by traditional journalism to showcase famine in Gaza.
Notable contributors include historian Niall Ferguson and economic thinker Tyler Cowen.
Future Direction
Mr Ellison said the appointment of Ms Weiss as top editorial position was part of a broader initiative to modernize coverage at Paramount and make CBS the "most credible name in news".
"We believe the bulk of the country longs for news that is balanced and fact-based, and we want CBS to be their home," he said.
More Change at CBS
Terms of the deal were not made public. Paramount declined to comment reports that the firm had paid $150 million in equity and currency.
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 objective is to produce journalism that is less partisan, and therefore has the potential to reach all viewers.
His purchase of Paramount was approved by government authorities this recent period, after the company agreed to pay $16 million to settle a lawsuit.
To win approval of the acquisition, Mr Ellison agreed to establish an external reviewer at CBS to examine complaints of partiality and promised to authorities that programming would include a range of opinions.
He further said CBS's established political show "Face the Nation" would cease to air modified discussions.
Partnership Details
CBS News has a partnership agreement with an international broadcaster, meaning news reporting including recorded segments can be shared.
In a message announcing the arrangement, Ms Weiss said she trusted in the Paramount boss and his executive staff.
"They are committing fully because they support news. Because they have conviction. Because they value this country. And because they understand, as we do, that America cannot thrive without mutual understanding, common truths, and a unified worldview," she stated.
