Paramount Skydance CEO David Ellison has appointed Bari Weiss as the editor-in-chief of CBS News as part of a deal to purchase The Free Press, an online news site she established. The financial terms of the deal were not disclosed in the announcement, but a source familiar with the matter indicated it was a $150 million US agreement.
In a recent essay, Weiss, aged 41, expressed her excitement about the opportunity to reshape CBS News in line with the values of The Free Press and American journalism. She had previously resigned from her position as an opinion writer at the New York Times in July 2020, citing continuous bullying from colleagues who disagreed with her opinions.
Weiss founded her new media company in 2022 with a focus on honesty, determination, and independence. Paramount’s CEO, David Ellison, emphasized the company’s responsibility as a guardian of one of the world’s renowned news organizations, striving for constructive dialogue and inclusivity.
Weiss, in a letter to CBS News employees, shared her deep connection to CBS and her commitment to upholding its legacy. She expressed her eagerness to collaborate with the staff to enhance CBS News’s credibility and become the most trusted news outlet in the United States.
The Free Press has gained recognition for challenging mainstream narratives, with notable articles uncovering issues such as biased reporting at NPR and controversial practices at a transgender center. Weiss’s hiring has sparked mixed reactions online, with some questioning her qualifications and experience in journalism.
Moving forward, Weiss will work closely with David Ellison to shape the editorial direction of CBS News. The Free Press will continue to operate independently, maintaining its brand and operations with its current subscriber base intact.
The media landscape is evolving, with influential figures like David Ellison aligning themselves with political leaders such as Donald Trump. Paramount’s acquisition of CBS News reflects a commitment to diverse viewpoints and editorial integrity, as mandated by regulatory bodies like the FCC.
