Mutiny At CBS: Decision to Settle Trump's Lawsuit Sparks Rebellion

 

Shari Redstone, owner of Paramount Global, aims to swiftly settle a lawsuit filed by Donald Trump against "60 Minutes" over the editing of an interview with Kamala Harris. This move, believed to be aimed at smoothing the FCC approval for Paramount's sale to Skydance, has triggered a significant unrest within CBS News. Several employees are contemplating public dissent or resignation in protest.

Bill Owens

During an all-hands meeting on Monday afternoon, Bill Owens, the executive producer of "60 Minutes," declared his refusal to apologize for the editing choices. "The edit is perfectly fine," he stated, as per sources present, adding that he had already communicated this stance to Paramount's leadership. He also reassured the team that CBS News CEO Wendy McMahon supported them. However, Owens confirmed that CBS would comply with the FCC's demand for unedited footage and transcripts of the Harris interview.

Puck reports several Paramount executives think that settling could improve the chances of securing regulatory approval for a significant merger they are currently pursuing. Shari Redstone, the controlling shareholder of Paramount, is in favor of the settlement. 

In the meeting, some staff expressed interest in signing a letter to oppose the expected multimillion-dollar settlement, while others voiced readiness to resign. "60 Minutes" correspondent Scott Pelley, while sharing his frustration, cautioned against resigning, warning that Trump might portray such actions as dismissals. Similarly, Anderson Cooper, another correspondent for the show, advised against leaving, emphasizing the unique role "60 Minutes" plays in investigative journalism within the media landscape.