Paramount Skydance CEO, David Ellison, has appointed Bari Weiss as the editor-in-chief of CBS News as part of an acquisition deal for her online news platform, The Free Press. The exact value of the deal remains undisclosed, but an insider revealed it to be around $150 million US.
Weiss, aged 41, expressed excitement about the opportunity to steer CBS News towards upholding the core values of The Free Press and American journalism. She founded her new media venture in 2022 with a focus on honesty, determination, and independence.
In a letter addressed to Paramount employees, Ellison emphasized the company’s responsibility as a custodian of a renowned news organization, aiming to enhance audience reach and promote constructive dialogue. He praised Weiss for her dedication to fact-based reporting and inclusive storytelling.
Weiss, in a message to CBS News staff, shared her childhood connection to the network and her commitment to revitalizing its legacy in today’s media landscape. She pledged to engage with employees for feedback, aiming to establish CBS News as a trusted source of information in the United States.
The Free Press has gained recognition for challenging mainstream narratives through impactful articles. Notable pieces have raised concerns about liberal bias in media and highlighted controversial practices at the Washington University Transgender Center. Despite some backlash, the platform maintains its commitment to investigative journalism.
Weiss’s appointment has sparked varied reactions online, with some questioning her credentials and experience. Nevertheless, she will collaborate closely with David Ellison to shape the editorial direction of CBS News, which currently trails behind its competitors in the evening news segment.
The Free Press, boasting 1.5 million subscribers and 170,000 paying members, will continue its independent operations under Weiss’s leadership. The platform’s commitment to journalistic integrity and diverse viewpoints remains unchanged.
David Ellison’s ties to the Trump family have raised concerns about potential biases in media ownership. However, regulatory approvals ensured that the CBS network under Skydance Media would represent a broad spectrum of perspectives. Paramount’s previous settlement with Trump over a contentious interview demonstrates the complexities of media ownership and political influence.
In conclusion, Bari Weiss’s new role as editor-in-chief marks a significant development in the media landscape, reflecting a blend of tradition and innovation in journalistic practices.
