Reports indicate that CBS News staff are quite upset about the news of Bari Weiss, an openly pro-Israel journalist, potentially taking a significant role at the network.
Weiss, who previously served as an opinion editor at the New York Times—until her exit in 2020, which followed controversy surrounding the paper’s internal culture—might be stepping in as a senior editor at CBS. This comes as part of a deal reportedly valued at around $200 million, which is associated with the future of Paramount’s media ventures.
Since David Ellison took charge of the network in an $8 billion deal with SkyDance, comments on this matter have been scarce. However, a report from The Pack News on Wednesday suggested that the transaction is nearing completion.
One individual familiar with the sentiments at CBS expressed dissatisfaction and noted many journalists are seeking meaningful contributions in their work.
Another insider cautioned that Weiss’ entry might ignite significant tensions, especially regarding coverage of issues surrounding Israel and Gaza. It seems some employees are really distressed about the idea of following her editorial lead.
A notable journalist outside CBS took it a step further, threatening to resign rather than work under Weiss, capturing the rising tension with a line reminiscent of classic broadcasts: “Good night, bad luck.”
This phrase plays on the title of the 2005 film about Edward R. Murrow, which featured his famous sign-off, “Goodnight and Good Luck.”
The backlash against Weiss indicates increasing unrest among CBS staff, especially after years of budget cuts and plummeting ratings.
Ellison, attempting to ease concerns over potential changes at CBS, remarked that he wished to keep politics out of the company following his recent acquisition victory.
Yet, Weiss’ anticipated debut at CBS News is set to stir the waters. Known for her criticisms of progressive narratives, she founded the Free Press, a platform that blends various opinion pieces and interviews aimed at subscribers.
Dylan Byers of Puck Media reports that Paramount’s offer for Weiss could be over $100 million, with some estimates reaching as high as $200 million.
Launched in 2022, the Free Press quickly gained recognition for its high-profile contributors and Weiss’ assertive commentary on contentious matters, including interviews with political figures like senators and celebrities.
CBS News, once the home of pioneers like Edward R. Murrow and Walter Cronkite, now confronts upheaval with Weiss’ looming appointment.
Ellison, now 41, assumed control of CBS News as part of Paramount Global post-merger approval, a deal conditioned by regulators which involved significant concessions, including the removal of DEI roles and the establishment of an ombudsman to oversee bias.
These adjustments have already raised red flags within CBS.
One insider described the ombudsman’s role as akin to a “hall monitor,” while some anchors have publicly voiced concerns regarding the network’s tradition of independent journalism.
Weiss’s potential entry seems to heighten these anxieties and brings uncertainty over the future of current network president Tom Chibrowski, who remains silent on the matter.
Weiss has taken a quiet approach publicly, and Paramount has not confirmed the deal as of yet. However, a report from Puck suggests preparations for a new chapter as staff await developments.
This piece is pending comments from both Paramount and Weiss. CBS News, however, has opted to remain mum on the situation.
