Bari Weiss takes charge of CBS News following Paramount acquisition of The Free Press
- Bari Weiss is appointed as the editor-in-chief of CBS News following the acquisition of The Free Press by Paramount.
- Weiss will retain her position as CEO and editor of The Free Press, which will function independently within Paramount.
- This acquisition represents a strategic initiative to reshape CBS News and broaden its appeal to audiences seeking balanced journalism.
In a significant shift for American journalism, Bari Weiss has taken on the role of editor-in-chief at CBS News following the acquisition of her media company, The Free Press, by Paramount. This move, which further blends traditional journalism with a modern, independent approach, is expected to shape the future of CBS News significantly. Paramount, a Skydance Corporation, was motivated by a desire to integrate Weiss's editorial perspective into CBS News, which has generated both anticipation and unease among some of the network's journalists. The acquisition was finalized recently, with reports stating that Paramount paid approximately $150 million for The Free Press. Weiss remains the CEO and editor of The Free Press, which will maintain its operational independence under Paramount's umbrella. This setup allows Weiss to influence CBS News while ensuring that The Free Press continues to champion independent journalism. The Free Press has garnered attention for its heterodox viewpoints, particularly its stance on controversial subjects, which has evoked a strong response both in support and opposition. As editor-in-chief, Bari Weiss is expected to prioritize editorial innovation and the delivery of news while upholding the core values that define both organizations. David Ellison, the CEO of Paramount, expressed confidence in Weiss’s ability to rejuvenate CBS News, appealing to a broader audience that desires balanced and factual reporting. This partnership is considered a crucial initiative for Paramount, reflecting its commitment to addressing the growing demand for trustworthy journalism in an increasingly polarized media landscape. Going forward, The Free Press's initiatives, including the recent "Free Week" promotion offering unrestricted access to its content, aim to expand its reach and engage with a wider audience. This endeavor underscores the publication’s commitment to independent journalism while positioning it within a larger media framework, granting it more visibility and influence. The collaboration between Weiss and CBS News is seen as a strategic move to reinvigorate the network’s approach to news, with hopes of establishing it as a leading source in American journalism.