Paramount Skydance CEO David Ellison has appointed Bari Weiss as the editor-in-chief of CBS News as part of a deal to purchase The Free Press, an online news platform she founded. The acquisition, not disclosed in the announcement, was reportedly for $150 million US.
In a public statement released on Monday, Weiss, aged 41, expressed excitement about the opportunity to influence the future direction of CBS News, aligning it with the core values of The Free Press and American journalism. She previously left her position as an opinion writer at the New York Times in 2020, citing ongoing workplace conflicts related to differing viewpoints.
Established in 2022, Weiss’s new media venture upholds values of transparency, determination, and editorial independence. Ellison emphasized in a letter to Paramount staff the importance of responsible journalism and fostering open dialogue within the media landscape.
Weiss, in a communication to CBS News employees, shared her personal connection to the network and her commitment to upholding its legacy of trusted reporting. She pledged to engage with the team to enhance CBS News’s credibility and become a leading news source in the United States.
The Free Press has gained recognition for challenging mainstream narratives, including investigations into sensitive issues like bias in media and controversial healthcare practices. Weiss’s past writings have stirred debate, with some critics questioning her qualifications and stance on certain topics.
Moving forward, Weiss will collaborate directly with David Ellison to shape CBS News’s editorial direction, aiming to elevate the network’s standing in the competitive news industry. The Free Press will maintain its autonomy and continue delivering content to its sizable subscriber base.
The ownership landscape of media organizations is evolving, with prominent figures tied to former President Donald Trump influencing key industry players. David Ellison’s involvement in media acquisitions aligns with a commitment to diverse viewpoints, as noted by regulatory authorities overseeing recent transactions involving Paramount and CBS.
