Matt Gutman to Join CBS News’ “48 Hours”
CBS News is reportedly preparing to introduce Matt Gutman from ABC News into a significant role on the true crime program “48 Hours.” Additionally, he’s expected to make appearances on “60 Minutes,” as detailed by a recent report.
This transition is part of a “major overhaul” of “48 Hours,” driven by CBS News Editor-in-Chief Bari Weiss, who is in the process of reshaping the network, according to an insider.
Weiss has been noted for her determined pursuit of Gutman, currently serving as a national correspondent at ABC News. The source emphasized that they view him as a critical addition, indicating he will have a meaningful influence on the show.
It seems Weiss is keen on a thorough transformation of “48 Hours,” with the insider mentioning Gutman’s passion for true crime. However, it remains uncertain whether he will take on hosting responsibilities or focus on other aspects of production.
“48 Hours” has traditionally rotated among various journalists for hosting duties, including Anne Marie Greene, Natalie Morales, Erin Moriarty, Tracy Smith, and Peter Van Sant.
There’s no information yet regarding any changes to the number of anchors on the show.
As previously reported, part of Weiss’ pitch to Gutman included the opportunity to contribute to the popular “60 Minutes,” which is looking to introduce fresh talent. Some senior correspondents, like Scott Pelley, Leslie Stahl, and Bill Whitaker, may potentially remain on the show, according to those in the know.
At this point, specifics about Gutman’s new role have not been revealed.
A CBS News spokesperson opted not to comment on the situation.
While Gutman may not be a household name in the world of broadcast news, his international reporting background and digital expertise align well with Weiss’ vision, according to insiders.
At 47 years old, Gutman has previously created successful true crime podcasts such as “Devil in the Desert,” which centers on a kidnapping case in California, and “Cutthroat Inc.,” discussing greed and betrayal tied to a shocking murder. Both of these projects were produced by ABC Audio.
He is also recognized for his extensive reporting from the Middle East and his coverage of various international crises, including the events following the Hamas attacks on Israel in October 2023.
However, Gutman has faced criticism from time to time. Notably, he was suspended from ABC for an editorial misstep in 2020 when he inaccurately reported that all four of Kobe Bryant’s daughters were present during his tragic helicopter crash.
There were also controversies regarding his comments on-air about the assassination suspect Tyler Robinson, which drew backlash for being somewhat misaligned with the seriousness of the situation.
Additionally, Gutman stirred some controversy over a shirtless Instagram photo that Disney executives reportedly found inappropriate, leading to discussions about its removal.
After expressing intentions to illuminate the stark contrast between a recent cold-blooded assassination and personal reflections shared at a press conference, the magazine issued an apology shortly thereafter.
