Bari Weiss Set to Become Editor in Chief of CBS News

NEW YORK, NY — Bari Weiss is expected to be named editor in chief of CBS News in the coming days, according to sources familiar with the situation. The announcement is anticipated on Monday, although details remain fluid and could change.

Weiss, 41, is a former opinion writer for The New York Times and has gained recognition for her work with the Free Press, a news site she transformed into a noted platform with a contrarian approach. In a significant shift for CBS News, she will report directly to Paramount Skydance CEO David Ellison, bypassing current CBS News president Tom Cibrowski, who is under George Cheeks, chair of TV media at Paramount Skydance.

This move raises questions about the potential return of former CBS President David Rhodes, as industry insiders indicate that Weiss and Rhodes were in an “either/or” situation regarding the top post. Weiss is perceived as a strong counterpart to Cibrowski, known for his production skills rather than journalism. “Bari is extremely ambitious. Tom had better watch out,” one source noted.

Paramount Skydance also plans to acquire the Free Press in a deal estimated at $150 million. The transaction will likely involve both stock and cash, with provisions for future earnings. Despite the acquisition, the Free Press is expected to operate independently from CBS News.

It remains uncertain how Weiss will integrate her work at CBS News, especially given her commitments to her podcast, “Honestly with Bari Weiss,” and her column for the Free Press. A spokesperson for Paramount Skydance did not respond immediately for comments.

The leadership change indicates a potential shift in CBS News’ culture, particularly concerning established programs like “60 Minutes.” One former CBS News veteran remarked that Weiss’ addition might disrupt the traditional operations within the newsroom: “It would be like dropping a grenade.”

Concerns have grown over the network’s alleged left-leaning bias, with Weiss expected to push for more conservative perspectives. This comes after Paramount recently settled a lawsuit with Donald Trump over accusations of biased editing during a “60 Minutes” interview with Kamala Harris.

The developments signal a critical moment for CBS News as it eyes a new editorial direction and navigates the challenges of reshaping its leadership structure.