Changes Ahead for “60 Minutes” Under Bari Weiss
Bari Weiss, the Editor-in-Chief at CBS News, is planning a significant revamp of “60 Minutes.” Reports indicate that layoffs may occur this summer, potentially affecting some of the program’s top talent and producers, as mentioned in a recent article.
Sources suggest that these layoffs could happen in June. This follows CBS News’s recent decision to reduce its workforce by about 6%, equating to roughly 60 to 70 employees. The changes include the surprising closure of the network’s radio division, which had been in operation for 99 years.
Prior to the March layoffs, CBS Evening News reportedly received takeover offers that appeared in inboxes starting late January. There has also been speculation within CBS that “60 Minutes” might see a reboot soon.
There are expectations that another round of layoffs could impact “60 Minutes” directly. Weiss seeks to emphasize more investigative reporting and significant stories for the iconic news program, moving away from what some consider excessive “soft programming.”
A network spokesperson commented that “60 Minutes” is vital, asserting the importance of its serious journalism to CBS News’s identity. Excitement for its future is palpable, they say.
Weiss acknowledges that changes might mean letting go of either a prominent producer or correspondent to reshape the show’s direction. Some who have followed her career note that she isn’t impressed with this season’s content, which included a mind-reading segment. Recently, “60 Minutes” also covered topics ranging from chess boxing to dog aging research.
Some CBS executives agree that the program needs revitalization, advocating for new talent and a shift toward more serious reporting. Speculation has surfaced that Weiss might replace the show’s executive producer, Tanya Simon, whose contract is nearing its end. However, some CBS officials believe Simon supports Weiss’s vision, making such a shift unlikely.
Scott Pelley, a recognizable face of “60 Minutes,” is also rumored to be in jeopardy. Insider reports suggest that while his contract continues through next year, decisions about his future could be made soon.
Although there are discussions about reappointing Pelley and possibly reducing his pay, there are thoughts that he is not ready to step back just yet. Recent commentary indicates Weiss has been seemingly supportive of him.
Concerns have arisen regarding Pelley’s public criticisms of CBS leadership, which reportedly are not well received. Meanwhile, at an awards event, he claimed that Paramount doesn’t influence “60 Minutes'” reportings and criticized Weiss’s decisions regarding specific stories.
Without figures like Anderson Cooper, who didn’t renew his contract, “60 Minutes” may have a tough time attracting enough high-profile personalities, despite potential new roles for Norah O’Donnell and Matt Gutman.
One consensus seems to be that Weiss aims to make significant changes to the esteemed program, but she will likely require allies within CBS to navigate these shifts effectively. There’s also chatter about Sharyn Alfonsi, whose contract is expiring, and which direction her role may take under Weiss’s leadership.
In addition, reports suggest that Weiss might consider phasing out veteran correspondents like Leslie Stahl and Bill Whitaker to pave the way for newer talent at “60 Minutes.”
