CBS News is on a quest to hire top producers for “60 Minutes,” and apparently, the show’s new leader, Nick Bilton, is turning candidate interviews into opportunities to express his frustrations about the workplace, according to sources.
One seasoned candidate recently interviewed under the impression he was vying for Bilton’s second-in-command position. However, the job description felt more aligned with Bilton’s own role as executive producer, which raised some eyebrows. “They want the candidate to handle investigations, storylines, and operations,” said someone familiar with the discussions. “What exactly is Nick going to do?”
A network official clarified that Bilton is actually looking for three to four co-chairpersons rather than just a single deputy. Each would have a specialized role, especially since several senior producers have recently left or been let go.
Bilton, who is 49 and a former tech columnist for the New York Times, was recruited by CBS News editor-in-chief Bari Weiss to modernize “60 Minutes” and broaden its reach. However, he has expressed dissatisfaction with how he and Weiss are perceived within the organization after the controversial firing of correspondent Scott Pelley in June.
During a tense meeting, Perry criticized Bilton’s qualifications and accused Weiss of damaging the show. Following this confrontation, Bilton invited everyone for bagels and walked out in frustration. The next day, Perry was let go, and Bilton later accused him in a leaked letter of showing “no interest in the show’s future.”
One candidate noted that much of Bilton’s conversation revolved around the Pelley incident and staff dynamics. Some described him as “defensive” and “negative” when staff distrust was raised, with a source stating, “He is undergoing therapy sessions during the interview.”
On Tuesday, Bilton announced that the upcoming season of “60 Minutes” would welcome four new faces: Ross Douthat, Sebastian Junger, Gianna Toboni, and Trevor Phillips, alongside longtime correspondent Norah O’Donnell stepping into the correspondent role of the show.
A source said Bilton dismissed criticisms of Weiss with the phrase “Bali derangement syndrome,” a term used among Weiss’s supporters. Interestingly, Bilton compared the team he’s assembling to the “Avengers of news,” hinting at a playful tone.
Yet, one source expressed disbelief at this analogy, stating, “Really? ‘Avengers’? We’re journalists, not superhero characters.” They felt that Bilton’s humor didn’t reflect an adequate understanding of the show’s serious purpose.
While officials downplayed his comments, suggesting they were made in jest, there are ongoing concerns about Bilton’s lack of television experience. Some CBS executives worry he has grand ideas but lacks the practical skills to implement them. Three people remarked that he struggled to articulate his vision for digitally transforming “60 Minutes,” with one even noting he was using outdated jargon.
Officials maintained that Bilton’s vague communication during interviews was intentional, pointing to his concerns about possible leaks. They expect him to clarify his plans soon.
For now, longtime producer Maria Gavrilovic is stepping up to support Bilton and may take on a full-time role. Bilton has also discussed working with previous producers, but it seems negotiations have stalled for key hires. Despite interviewing 70 candidates over the last couple of months, he has yet to fill any senior-level positions.
Since the removal of executive producer Tanya Simon and correspondents Sharyn Alfonsi and Cecilia Vega, the show has been in disarray. Senior producers Dragan Mihailovic and Guy Campanile also parted ways, and Anderson Cooper resigned during the fallout.
While some positions have been filled, the overall staffing situation remains uncertain as the new season approaches. Many feel Bilton is being overly cautious in his hiring process given the stakes involved.
Conversations with Bilton and senior executives have reportedly left many unclear about their ambitions for the show. Aside from lack of clarity, the bad press surrounding “60 Minutes” has also hampered the hiring process.
One source reflected on the interviews, saying, “I can’t imagine anyone with a strong profile wanting to join Bilton’s show right now.”
Earlier this year, Weiss faced backlash for pressuring the production of a story from El Salvador, which led to more unrest among staff accustomed to greater editorial independence.
Other controversies included Weiss’s direct involvement in securing high-profile interviews, such as one with Israeli President Benjamin Netanyahu, who chose CBS correspondent Major Garrett over “60 Minutes” veteran Leslie Stahl for the sit-down.
