Former New York Times Writer Takes Over CBS Following Paramount Acquisition

The media conglomerate has named former NYT columnist Bari Weiss to lead CBS News, representing the latest step by recent acquirers to reorganize activities of one of America's leading news networks.

The company is also buying The Free Press, the digital outlet Weiss founded after her acrimonious departure from the New York Times, in a deal said to be worth $150 million.

Ms Weiss, who has criticised network journalism for becoming too partisan, said she was excited to put her stamp on CBS, which was purchased by David Ellison in recent months as part of a broader merger with Paramount.

Profile of the New Leader

Ms Weiss, who started her career at Jewish publications, is known for her support of Israel and her criticism of "woke culture".

Since its start as a digital bulletin in 2021, The Free Press has attracted 1.5 million followers, including over 170,000 paid subscribers.

It has drawn attention for articles such as a article skeptical of NPR by one of its previous business editors, as well as an examination of some images used by established media to depict famine in Gaza.

Prominent writers include historian Niall Ferguson and economic thinker Tyler Cowen.

Vision for CBS

Mr Ellison said the selection of Ms Weiss as top editorial position was part of a bigger campaign to modernize content at Paramount and make CBS the "most-trusted name in news".

"We are convinced the bulk of the country desires news that is even-handed and fact-based, and we want CBS to be their source," he said.

More Change at CBS

Details of the arrangement were not made public. Paramount refused to discuss reports that the company had paid $150 million in equity and currency.

Mr Ellison made his name as a Hollywood film producer of hit movies such as Top Gun Maverick, True Grit and World War Z.

He has said his aim is to produce reporting that is less politically skewed, and therefore has the ability to reach all audiences.

His purchase of Paramount was approved by regulators this season, after the company consented to pay $16 million to conclude a court case.

To win approval of the deal, Mr Ellison committed to establish an external reviewer at CBS to review allegations of bias and committed to oversight bodies that coverage would showcase a diversity of view points.

He additionally said CBS's long-running political show "Face the Nation" would discontinue air altered conversations.

Collaboration Information

CBS News has a working relationship with another major network, meaning news content including visual material can be exchanged.

In a note revealing the agreement, Ms Weiss said she had faith in the Paramount leader and his executive staff.

"They are doubling down because they have faith in news. Because they have courage. Because they value this country. And because they appreciate, as we do, that America cannot thrive without shared information, common truths, and a shared perspective," she commented.