CBS News, a division of Paramount Global, has undertaken a discreet reduction in its workforce, signaling broader challenges within the parent company as it braces for significant layoffs.
According to a report from the New York Post Friday, CBS News "quietly trims staff" in anticipation of what is expected to be a "mass layoffs" event this summer. This move contradicts earlier assumptions that CBS and its news division were insulated from cuts ahead of Paramount’s merger with Skydance Media.
The initial trimming at CBS News involved the termination of three high-level positions, including two bureau chiefs—North Bureau Chief Andre Rodriguez and Southern Region Bureau Chief Maryhelen Campa—and a senior executive. These cuts were reported as part of a strategic reduction ahead of larger workforce adjustments.
The layoffs are closely tied to Paramount’s pending $8 billion merger with Skydance Media, expected to close in the first half of 2025. The merger has prompted cost-saving measures and restructuring, including the consolidation of teams like the U.S. TV and streaming distribution units, which resulted in additional staff cuts.
Paramount has faced declining revenue in its linear TV business, prompting aggressive cost-cutting measures. The company’s efforts to streamline operations include shutting down its TV studio in August 2024 and integrating streaming and TV distribution teams.
Paramount is navigating a high-profile $20 billion lawsuit from President Donald Trump over CBS News’ handling of a "60 Minutes" interview with Kamala Harris. The lawsuit, combined with scrutiny from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) over broadcast license transfers needed for the Skydance merger, has added complexity to Paramount’s restructuring efforts.
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