Paramount Names Kenneth Weinstein as CBS News Ombudsman
Paramount has appointed Kenneth Weinstein as the new ombudsman for CBS News. This comes shortly after the company’s significant merger with Skydance, which has sparked considerable discussion regarding its influence on editorial decisions.
Weinstein, who previously served as president and CEO of the Hudson Institute and chairman of the U.S. Global Media Agency, noted, “We aim to take into account the concerns of independent advocates for journalistic integrity and transparency, as well as those of employees and viewers. We’ll address questions on news coverage and ensure announcements about accuracy and responsibility are made.”
This move to appoint an ombudsman aligns with Paramount’s efforts to finalize a multi-billion dollar merger with Skydance, which has been under scrutiny from President Trump’s FCC.
The merger’s completion this summer followed a settlement where Paramount agreed to pay Trump’s foundation $16 million to resolve a lawsuit filed last year.
Trump and his supporters have frequently criticized CBS News regarding its coverage during his presidency, while the FCC chairman under Trump has indicated a willingness to examine the network’s broadcast licenses closely.
Upon the FCC’s approval of the Paramount and Skydance merger, Chairman Brendanker commended the media conglomerate for its commitment to ensure that the new company’s programming reflects a variety of political and ideological viewpoints.
On Monday, Paramount announced a new ombudsman process, stating that complaints from consumers, employees, and others would be directed to Weinstein. The company added, “We will review each concern and raise it with President Jeff Shell and television media chairman George Cheek.”
“If, after evaluation, we agree that further outreach is warranted, Weinstein, Shell, and Cheek will work with Tom Chibrowski, president and executive editor of CBS News, to recommend and implement necessary actions,” the company explained.
Weinstein previously served as an ambassador to Japan during Trump’s first term.
