CBS News Ends Contract with Sharyn Alfonsi Following Dispute
CBS News has decided not to renew the contract of “60 Minutes” correspondent Sharyn Alfonsi after a series of controversies, including claims of political interference by the network’s higher-ups.
Alfonsi shared on Wednesday that her contract expired over the weekend, and she mentioned that her agents had difficulty reaching the network afterward.
Although she is still with CBS News under an at-will agreement, sources indicated that she has no intention of returning to “60 Minutes.”
In her statement, Alfonsi expressed that the situation conveys a clear sentiment: her time with “60 Minutes” has effectively ended.
She accused CBS management of penalizing her for maintaining “factually accurate reporting” and cautioned that the network seems to be moving away from “fearless, independent journalism,” favoring “access at the expense of accountability.”
Alfonsi remarked on the growing erosion of the line between editorial independence and corporate interests at CBS, claiming that journalists who challenge authority are increasingly sidelined.
She expressed concern that if this trend continues, “60 Minutes” might retain its name but lose the courage and integrity essential for impactful journalism.
Alfonsi is reportedly the first to have her contract terminated amidst these tensions. CBS News has yet to comment on the situation.
The “60 Minutes” program is set to go on hiatus following its current season.
This latest development adds to unrest that traces back to December. At that time, editor-in-chief Bari Weiss abruptly halted an investigation into deportees to El Salvador’s CECOT prison.
Alfonsi criticized that decision internally, calling it “political,” while Weiss defended the choice, explaining that the report required additional editorial adjustments, including interviews with Trump administration officials.
That segment aired the following month but was met with objections from Alfonsi, who accused Weiss’s deputy of acting as a spokesperson for the Trump administration.
In recent remarks, she condemned what she characterized as “corporate interference and editorial terror.”
Colleague Scott Perry from “60 Minutes” is also reportedly facing challenges in his position. Sources have previously indicated that he advised Weiss to take editorial decisions more seriously.
Weiss, who took charge of CBS News last fall following its acquisition by Skydance, is planning significant changes to “60 Minutes.” Layoffs involving key talent and producers are also being considered this summer.
