Shari Redstone Names Bari Weiss as Editorial Head for CBS News
Shari Redstone has chosen Bari Weiss to oversee editorial management at CBS News, emphasizing the need for a more “balanced” representation of global events.
Redstone, formerly a key shareholder in Paramount Global, which is in the process of selling to Skydance Media, voiced her support for Weiss during Axios’ Media Trends event in New York, suggesting that TV news should prioritize being “fact-based” and ensure audiences are exposed to diverse viewpoints.
Weiss, the head of Free Press, an online publication on Substack, has her platform reportedly on the market, with Skydance’s David Ellison looking to sell it for between $100 million and $200 million.
Details of the package deal indicate that Weiss will step into a senior editorial role, with supervisory responsibilities at CBS News. While Redstone is optimistic about Weiss guiding the network, reports suggest a significant portion of CBS News staff is uneasy with her potential influence.
Internal sources describe a tense atmosphere, with many journalists pushing for a change in the editorial approach, especially regarding sensitive matters like Israel and Gaza. There is talk among staff about possible strikes or resignations, reflecting their concerns over Weiss’ management style and opinions. Some insiders fear her arrival could spark intense debates within the organization.
Redstone expressed confidence in Weiss, saying, “I know we’ve talked about Bari, and I think she’ll have a good voice.” However, she refrained from giving specifics about the deal.
While Redstone praised Weiss, staff at CBS News have voiced anxiety about Weiss taking a leadership role, especially in light of ongoing speculation that Ellison intends to acquire CNN’s parent company, Warner Bros. Discovery. Paramount Skydance is reportedly preparing substantial cash offers, which has led to further apprehension among CNN employees regarding potential changes in editorial direction.
“People are very worried,” one employee revealed, while another added that there’s a pervasive uncertainty about what’s ahead.
CNN’s Chief Mark Thompson has attempted to alleviate concerns by encouraging staff to stay focused and maintain a clear understanding of network strategies amid ongoing rumors of acquisition. Yet, his reassurances seem to be falling flat among the ranks.
Weiss, who resigned from The New York Times in 2020 citing a culture of bullying and hostility, is a notable critic of cancel culture, which she sees as ideological intolerance within media and society. As editor-in-chief of Free Press, she staunchly supports Israel—a viewpoint that aligns with Redstone’s criticism of CBS News’ coverage of Middle Eastern events.
Redstone believes it’s essential to provide audiences with varying perspectives, asserting that they can identify facts amidst the noise of opinions. She argued for a renewed commitment to factual journalism and the importance of presenting multiple viewpoints.
Furthermore, Redstone defended CBS’s recent decision to cancel “Late Show with Stephen Colbert,” arguing it was a necessary financial move despite the backlash it ignited due to Colbert’s vocal criticism of Trump.
In response to criticism over the cancellation, Redstone maintained that the decision was purely business-oriented, expressing admiration for Colbert while acknowledging the need for financial viability “We really needed to get into a business that is financially valuable,” she remarked.
As for potential shifts in programming and editorial direction, Redstone stressed that media companies must thoughtfully consider the content they produce, especially given the existing divisions within the country.
No comments have been provided by representatives from CBS News regarding these developments, as inquiries have also been extended to Paramount Skydance, Weiss, CNN, and Warner Bros. Discovery.
