BREAKING: Bari Weiss has been named the new editor-in-chief of CBS News as part of a major acquisition deal that values her online news site, The Free Press, at $150 million. The announcement was made today by Paramount Skydance CEO David Ellison, marking a significant shift in the media landscape.
In a powerful statement, Weiss expressed her commitment to reshaping CBS News into a trusted source of journalism that aligns with the core values of The Free Press. She stated, “This is a chance to help guide CBS News into a future that honors those great values.” This pivotal move comes after months of discussions between Ellison and Weiss, who first proposed the idea at the July 2023 Allen & Co conference in Sun Valley.
Weiss, 41, is known for her candid perspectives and has previously faced significant backlash during her tenure at The New York Times, where she resigned in July 2020 after a controversial open letter detailing her experiences with “constant bullying” from colleagues. In 2022, she founded The Free Press, emphasizing a foundation of “honesty, doggedness, and fierce independence.”
In a letter to Paramount employees, Ellison highlighted the company’s aim to uphold the legacy of CBS News, stating, “We are challenging ourselves to do better.” He praised Weiss for her dedication to rigorous reporting and her ability to connect with diverse audiences.
Weiss conveyed her emotional connection to CBS News, recalling memorable moments from her childhood in Pittsburgh. She committed to engaging with CBS News staff to understand their perspectives and improve the organization. “I want to hear what’s working, what’s not,” she said, aiming to make CBS News the “most-trusted news organization in the United States.”
The Free Press has gained notoriety for its bold articles, including critiques of mainstream media biases and investigative reports on sensitive topics such as gender treatment at medical facilities. Weiss’s editorial leadership is expected to further this trend, as she aims to challenge conventional narratives.
As she steps into her new role, Weiss will report directly to David Ellison and is poised to set a fresh editorial direction for CBS News, which currently ranks third in the competitive landscape of U.S. evening news broadcasts.
This significant change in leadership at CBS News raises questions about the future direction of one of the world’s most recognized news organizations. With Weiss at the helm, industry watchers will closely monitor how her vision unfolds in the coming months.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
