Paramount has appointed Bari Weiss, a former opinion writer for The New York Times, as the new leader of CBS News. This decision is part of a broader strategy by Paramount’s new ownership to alter the operations of the renowned news organization. As part of the reshuffle, Paramount is also acquiring The Free Press, a digital media outlet founded by Weiss following her departure from the New York Times, in a transaction valued at approximately $150 million.
Weiss has been vocal about her perception that broadcast media has become excessively partisan. Following her appointment, she expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity to influence CBS, which was taken over by David Ellison earlier this year amid a merger with Paramount. However, the news of her leadership has raised concerns among some due to Ellison’s background as the son of technology billionaire and supporter of former President Trump, Larry Ellison.
Weiss has a history of supporting Israel and has criticized what she refers to as “cancel culture.” The Free Press, which she launched in 2021, has grown to attract 1.5 million subscribers, including over 170,000 paid memberships. The outlet has garnered attention for its investigative reports, including critiques of other media organizations.
Ellison, a Hollywood producer known for films such as “Top Gun Maverick,” aims to create news coverage that is less politically biased to appeal to a wider audience. His objectives include modernizing content at Paramount and establishing CBS as a reliable news source. To address concerns about bias, Ellison has committed to implementing an independent ombudsman at CBS and ensuring programming reflects a variety of viewpoints. He also stated that CBS’s political show “Face the Nation” will stop airing edited interviews.
CBS News has an ongoing partnership with BBC, allowing for the sharing of news content. Weiss’s announcement regarding her new role indicates her confidence in Paramount’s leadership and their commitment to factual reporting in the American media landscape.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c4gwd87ww1vo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss