According to Russell Adams at wsj.com, the key question hanging over talks is whether a merged operation would be big enough for the three outsize personalities that such a deal would bring together, according to people familiar with the discussions.
A deal would make Daily Beast co-founder and co-owner Tina Brown the editor of Newsweek on top of her existing editorial duties at the website, answering to two bosses who are heavily invested, both emotionally and financially, in their respective properties.
Stereo tycoon Sidney Harman, who recently acquired Newsweek from Washington Post Co., has said he didn't buy the magazine to make money. He bought it because he was drawn to the challenge of turning it around and has strong convictions about how that can happen.
People familiar with Mr. Harman's thinking said he may be wary of handing the reins to a strong-willed editor who also answers to another boss—Barry Diller, chairman and chief executive of Daily Beast owner IAC/InterActive Corp.
A deal makes sense for both parties because of its potential to reduce costs and fill some gaping holes.
Newsweek and Mr. Harman's attorney declined to comment.
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