A prominent conservative journalist has been named as the new editor-in-chief of CBS News, marking a significant shift in the network’s leadership structure. Bari Weiss, founder of The Free Press, will assume the role under Paramount’s ownership, which recently acquired her media outlet for approximately $150 million.
Weiss, a 41-year-old former opinion writer for The New York Times, will report directly to Paramount CEO David Ellison, bypassing CBS News President Tom Cibrowski and Paramount’s head of television, George Cheeks. The deal reflects Paramount’s confidence in Weiss’s vision, with Ellison emphasizing a commitment to upholding “truth” and “facts” at CBS News.
The acquisition and leadership change signal a reconfiguration of CBS News’ long-standing management hierarchy. Sources indicate Weiss may challenge existing power dynamics, particularly with Cibrowski, who has been described as more focused on production than editorial direction. Insiders suggest her appointment could undermine speculation about the return of former CBS president David Rhodes to the network.
Weiss’s tenure at The Free Press has positioned her as a vocal critic of antisemitism and progressive media trends, raising questions about her potential influence over CBS News’ editorial strategy. The timing of her announcement remains uncertain, with discussions ongoing about the final details of the arrangement.