Imagine a seismic shift in the world of mainstream news, where a bold journalist steps into a powerhouse network to challenge the status quo—could this be the spark that reignites trust in media? That's exactly what's unfolding with Bari Weiss's appointment as editor-in-chief of CBS News, tied to a blockbuster deal with Paramount Skydance. But here's where it gets controversial: Is this a genuine push for diverse voices, or just another layer in the growing web of political influence over what we watch and read? Stick around, because this story dives deep into the details, and trust me, it's one that might just change how you view your evening news.
Let's break it down step by step, starting with the big picture. Paramount Skydance, led by CEO David Ellison, has struck a deal to acquire The Free Press, the online news site founded by Bari Weiss. While the companies kept the exact price under wraps in their Monday announcement, a reliable source revealed it's valued at a whopping $150 million. This isn't just any acquisition—it's a strategic move to infuse CBS News with the fresh, unfiltered energy that The Free Press is known for. For beginners wondering what The Free Press is all about, think of it as a digital platform that prides itself on digging deep, questioning norms, and presenting stories that often go against the grain of traditional media. Founded by Weiss in 2022 with a mission of 'honesty, doggedness, and fierce independence,' it's built a loyal following by tackling topics that mainstream outlets might shy away from.
Weiss, at just 41 years old, isn't new to stirring the pot. She made headlines back in July 2020 when she resigned from her role as an opinion writer at The New York Times. In a lengthy open letter, she described facing relentless bullying from colleagues who clashed with her viewpoints—a move that highlighted the tensions within big media. Fast-forward to now, and she's poised to reshape CBS News, reporting directly to Ellison himself. In her own words from an essay announcing the deal, this opportunity feels like a 'chance to help reshape a storied media organization—to help guide CBS News into a future that honors those great values that underpin The Free Press and the best of American journalism.' It's a powerful statement, and one that begs the question: Can one person's vision truly transform a giant like CBS?
This appointment didn't happen overnight. Ellison and Weiss had been in discussions for months, with the idea first surfacing at the prestigious Allen & Co conference in Sun Valley back in July—a hotspot for media moguls to brainstorm big deals. Ellison framed it as part of Paramount's broader goal to revamp content and forge stronger, more passionate connections with global audiences. He praised Weiss as 'a proven champion of independent, principled journalism,' a nod to her track record of pushing boundaries.
And this is the part most people miss: Weiss has a personal connection to CBS that adds an emotional layer. In a heartfelt letter to the network's staff, she shared how the iconic 'tick, tick, tick' sound or trumpet fanfare from CBS broadcasts takes her back to her childhood den in Pittsburgh. 'The opportunity to build on that legacy with you—and to renew it in an era that so desperately needs it—is an extraordinary privilege,' she wrote. It's a reminder that media isn't just about facts; it's about the stories that shape our lives. Weiss is eager to listen to the team, asking what's working and what's not, all with the aim of making CBS News America's most trusted source. She promises an open mind, a fresh notebook, and a sense of urgency—qualities that could help bridge divides in today's polarized news landscape.
Speaking of divides, The Free Press has built its reputation on challenging conventional narratives, and that's where things get really intriguing. Take, for example, a personal essay from a former senior NPR editor who accused the public radio network of a liberal bias that eroded listener trust. Or consider a whistleblower's account from the Washington University Transgender Center at St. Louis Children's Hospital, detailing how vulnerable teenagers with mental health issues were rushed into life-altering treatments. These pieces exemplify the site's commitment to bold reporting, but they also spark debate: Are they courageous exposes, or do they risk oversimplifying complex issues? It's a fine line, and one that Weiss will now navigate at CBS, where the evening news lags in third place behind competitors.
Structurally, Weiss will collaborate with CBS News President Tom Cibrowski, who brought 25 years of leadership experience from ABC News when he joined in 2025. Cibrowski reports to George Cheeks, Paramount's chair of TV Media, ensuring a clear chain of command. Meanwhile, The Free Press stays independent, keeping its brand, operations, and about 1.5 million subscribers—including 170,000 paying members—intact. It will continue publishing, which is great news for fans of its unique voice.
But here's the controversial twist that has media watchers buzzing: This deal unfolds against a backdrop where major media and tech firms are increasingly under the sway of figures aligned with President Donald Trump. Ellison, son of longtime Trump supporter Larry Ellison, played a key role in securing FCC approval for Skydance Media's $8 billion merger with Paramount. The FCC emphasized that CBS would showcase 'a diversity of viewpoints from across the political and ideological spectrum,' a promise that's both reassuring and ripe for skepticism. Before the merger, Paramount settled a $16 million lawsuit from Trump over a '60 Minutes' interview with Kamala Harris, which he claimed misrepresented him. The FCC insists the settlement and approval were separate, yet it's hard not to wonder if politics is pulling strings behind the scenes.
Adding fuel to the fire, CBS recently appointed Kenneth Weinstein, a former Hudson Institute president and CEO, as its new ombudsman. Weinstein, a conservative voice, brings his own perspective to the table. Is this a step toward true balance, or a nod to one side of the aisle? And with Trump supporters or donors influencing other giants like Disney, where even a comedian's suspension sparked outrage, the question looms: Are we seeing a media landscape that's more diverse or more divided?
This story was reported by Dawn Chmielewski in Los Angeles, Helen Coster in New York, Aditya Soni and Jaspreet Singh in Bengaluru, with editing by Sriraj Kalluvila and Nick Zieminski. Helen Coster, a National Affairs Correspondent at Reuters, specializes in politics and media, having covered the 2024 presidential race and the industry before that.
What do you think—will Bari Weiss's leadership bring the fresh air CBS News needs, or is this just another example of big money and politics hijacking journalism? Do you believe in the promise of diverse viewpoints, or fear it's a facade? Share your thoughts in the comments below; I'd love to hear your take and spark a conversation!
