Paramount Global is poised to formally announce its acquisition of The Free Press, the provocative conservative-leaning media outlet founded by Bari Weiss, in the coming days, according to a report by Status.
While the final purchase price remains undisclosed, the deal is expected to significantly reshape the media landscape, given The Free Press’s reputation for challenging mainstream narratives and its growing influence among readers seeking alternative perspectives. The acquisition marks a bold move by Paramount to integrate a polarizing yet impactful voice into its portfolio, which includes CBS News, a storied institution in broadcast journalism.
As part of the agreement, Bari Weiss, the outspoken journalist and founder of The Free Press, will reportedly take the helm of CBS News as its new leader. This appointment is likely to stir controversy within the ranks of CBS News, where Weiss’s iconoclastic style and conservative-leaning editorial stance may clash with the outlet’s traditional journalistic culture.
 |
| Bari Weiss |
The acquisition comes at a time when media companies are grappling with declining trust in traditional news outlets and a fragmented audience increasingly turning to independent platforms.
The Free Press, launched in 2021, has capitalized on this shift, positioning itself as a champion of free speech and a counterweight to what it perceives as ideological conformity in legacy media. Its rapid growth, fueled by high-profile contributors and a subscription-based model, has made it an attractive target for Paramount, which is seeking to diversify its content offerings and bolster its relevance in a competitive digital landscape.
The move also signals Paramount’s intent to reposition CBS News, which has faced challenges in maintaining its audience share amid cord-cutting and the rise of streaming platforms.