Major Changes Coming to “60 Minutes”

CBS News Editor-in-Chief Bari Weiss is shaking things up at “60 Minutes” for its 59th season, bringing in one of her former colleagues from the New York Times. Ross Douthat, a conservative columnist for the Times, has been named a new correspondent for the show, as announced by the new executive producer Nick Bilton on Tuesday.

In a memo to his team, Bilton praised Douthat’s ability to present complex topics in an approachable manner, highlighting his knack for capturing diverse perspectives with depth and empathy. “Ross will bring this great and wide-ranging curiosity to our atmosphere,” he noted.

Meanwhile, Kathleen Kingsbury, the Opinion Editor-in-Chief at the Times, expressed gratitude for Douthat’s 17 years with the publication, referring to him as a champion of open discussions and diverse viewpoints. She mentioned that they would miss his contributions.

In addition, veteran CBS correspondent Norah O’Donnell will also join “60 Minutes,” alongside Bilton’s memo acknowledging her impressive tenure and notable interviews with figures like Pope Francis and Presidents Trump and Biden.

Bilton’s announcements don’t stop there. He also revealed a roster of contributors to the program, including journalist and filmmaker Sebastian Junger and former Vice News correspondent Gianna Toboni, who is set to take on a national correspondent role at CBS News.

Weiss and CBS News President Tom Cybrowski expressed excitement about the new additions, inviting everyone to welcome their new colleagues.

This overhaul comes amid significant staff changes, including the departure of several long-standing correspondents and executive producers, which has stirred some controversy within CBS News. While veteran correspondents Leslie Stahl, Bill Whitaker, and Jon Wertheim remain, Anderson Cooper decided to step away earlier this year.