Bari Weiss, a 41-year-old journalist recently appointed as an editor for CBS News, is navigating a challenging environment, often referred to by insiders as a “snake pit.” This situation stems from efforts to revitalize the network, particularly its flagship programs.
David Ellison, CEO of Paramount Skydance, expressed his desire to restore “balance” at CBS News. However, insiders indicate that Weiss, who is no stranger to media battles, may find the entrenched newsroom culture resistant to her efforts.
A former staff member remarked that some long-time employees might prefer to see their brands fail rather than adapt to new changes. It’s a tricky landscape. Another source predicted that there might be attempts to undermine Weiss through leaks, given her relatively outsider status and her lack of managerial experience.
Weiss has a task ahead of her: she’s looking to connect with CBS veterans who hold onto the network’s storied history, especially with figures like Tom Tyborsky, who took the helm in March.
Cibrowski, the former executive producer of ABC’s “Good Morning America,” is seen as Weiss’ counterpart, while the network continues to grapple with its legacy. A second insider noted that Weiss’ outsider perspective might not play well, given her limited television background.
Nonetheless, there are those who believe Weiss has the charm and drive to forge valuable alliances within the network. But, there are reminders that she will need to be decisive and may need current and former CBS staff to navigate the challenges ahead.
Weiss reports directly to Ellison, while Cibrowski reports to George Cheeks, which has already stirred tensions at CBS. One former employee commented on Ellison’s apparent disregard for traditional journalistic values, viewing Weiss’s appointment as a way to instigate change.
Weiss faces formidable competition from renowned journalists within CBS, including well-known figures like “60 Minutes” correspondent Scott Perry and “Face the Nation” anchor, Margaret Brennan, both of whom have been at the center of political controversies.
Recently, CBS News executive producer Shona Thomas reversed an earlier directive from Tyborsky’s predecessor, adding another layer to the ongoing dynamics.
In a communication to CBS staff, Ellison discussed the “partisan” climate riddled with conflict, emphasizing that Weiss is expected to bring factual reporting and a commitment to diverse perspectives.
Weiss mentioned her long-standing admiration for “60 Minutes” and expressed her desire to pursue journalism that holds all political sides accountable.
Ellison’s Skydance recently merged with Paramount, creating a promise to the Federal Communications Commission to deal with bias complaints more effectively. To that end, Kenneth R. Weinstein was appointed as CBS News Ombudsman.
Before the merger’s approval, the network settled a lawsuit from Donald Trump over alleged biased editing of a “60 Minutes” interview with Democratic candidate Kamala Harris during the election period, a situation that brought added scrutiny regarding CBS’s reporting practices.
While denying any wrongdoing, the network ultimately settled the case, illustrating the ongoing issues they face regarding accusations of bias, including criticisms related to their reporting on Israel.
Weiss, who has been vocal about anti-Semitism amid the Israeli-Hamas conflict, previously gained attention for her resignation from the New York Times.
