Ex- NYT Writer Takes Over CBS Post Paramount Merger
Paramount has named former New York Times opinion writer Bari Weiss to oversee CBS News, signaling the newest move by recent acquirers to reorganize workings of a major US news organisations.
Paramount is furthermore purchasing The Free Press, the digital outlet Weiss established after her acrimonious departure from the New York Times, in a deal reported to be worth $150 million.
Ms Weiss, who has questioned network journalism for becoming overly political, said she was enthusiastic to shape CBS, which was purchased by David Ellison earlier this year as part of a larger merger with Paramount.
History of the New Leader
Ms Weiss, who began her professional journey at Jewish publications, is noted for her support of Israel and her skepticism of "call-out culture".
From its inception as a email publication in 2021, The Free Press has attracted 1.5 million readers, including in excess of 170,000 paid subscribers.
It has received recognition for reports such as a article critical of NPR by one of its previous business editors, as well as an examination of some photos used by established media to illustrate famine in Gaza.
Big name contributors include academic Niall Ferguson and financial expert Tyler Cowen.
Strategic Plans
Mr Ellison said the hiring of Ms Weiss as chief editor was part of a broader initiative to modernize coverage at Paramount and make CBS the "most credible name in news".
"We think the greater part of the country longs for news that is balanced and truthful, and we want CBS to be their home," he said.
Additional Shifts at CBS
Specifics of the agreement were not disclosed. Paramount declined to comment stories that the company had paid $150 million in shares and money.
Mr Ellison built his career 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 reporting that is less politically skewed, and therefore has the capacity to connect with all viewers.
His takeover of Paramount was approved by regulators this summer, after the company committed to pay $16 million to resolve a lawsuit.
To win approval of the transaction, Mr Ellison committed to establish an impartial arbitrator at CBS to examine concerns of prejudice and promised to oversight bodies that coverage 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 partnership agreement with an international broadcaster, meaning news material including visual material can be exchanged.
In a note revealing the agreement, Ms Weiss said she believed in the Paramount boss and his leadership team.
"They are making significant investments because they have faith in news. Because they have conviction. Because they value this country. And because they recognize, as we do, that America cannot succeed without shared information, common truths, and a shared perspective," she commented.