CBS News Staffers Fear Major Overhaul

It's looking like the Skydance-Paramount deal will eventually be approved.  It's seems now to be a question of when, not if. 

And then media watchers can expect of major overhaul of CBS News. according to media business columnist Charles Gasparino.  He discussed significant changes in The NY Post Sunday.

His column highlights the anticipated overhaul of CBS News under new CEO David Ellison’s leadership, driven by the $8 billion merger and a controversial $16 million settlement with President Donald Trump over a lawsuit regarding a 60 Minutes interview with then-Vice President Kamala Harris. 

Here are the key points:

Merger and Leadership Change: The Paramount-Skydance merger, backed by Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison (David’s father and a Trump ally), positions David Ellison to oversee CBS News. The merger, which includes Paramount’s assets like CBS, Paramount+ streaming, and cable channels, requires FCC approval, which some speculate was influenced by the Trump settlement.

Bari Weiss

CBS News Overhaul: Gasparino suggests that Ellison, known for producing blockbusters like Top Gun: Maverick, plans to reshape CBS News. This follows reports that Ellison met with Bari Weiss, a prominent journalist, for a potential high-profile role at the network, indicating a shift in editorial direction. The column notes internal unrest at CBS News, with staff expressing anger over the Trump settlement, perceived as a capitulation to secure the merger.

Trump Settlement Context: The settlement, publicly disclosed as $16 million but rumored to be closer to $35 million with additional public service announcement commitments, is seen as a move to clear regulatory hurdles for the merger. Critics, including CBS staff and press freedom advocates, view it as compromising journalistic integrity to appease Trump, especially given his public praise for Ellison.

Speculation on Changes: The column reflects broader concerns about CBS News’ future under Skydance, with fears of editorial shifts due to Ellison’s reported interactions with Trump and his father’s political ties. Some X posts speculate that Ellison might replace much of CBS News’ staff, though this remains unconfirmed. The overhaul could involve new investments but also risks further alienating staff already frustrated by Paramount’s current leadership under Shari Redstone.

Gasparino’s piece critiques the settlement’s implications, aligning with sentiments that it undermines CBS News’ credibility. The column may also explore how Ellison’s vision, potentially less focused on traditional journalism and more on commercial media, could reshape the network’s identity.

The potential involvement of journalist Bari Weiss in reshaping CBS News could have significant implications for the network's direction, credibility, and internal dynamics. 

Move Toward Non-Traditional Voices: Reports indicate that Skydance CEO David Ellison, who is poised to lead CBS News post-merger, has considered Weiss for a high-profile role, potentially at "60 Minutes." Weiss, known for her critiques of mainstream media as biased and her prominence in right-wing media circles, could push CBS News toward incorporating more contrarian or conservative perspectives. This might diversify the network's commentary but risks alienating viewers who value its current editorial stance.

Polarization of Content: Weiss’s reputation for challenging progressive narratives and her association with The Free Press, which emphasizes "fearless" journalism, could lead to programming that appeals to audiences skeptical of legacy media. However, her controversial stances, such as her views on cultural and political issues, might intensify debates about bias, potentially polarizing CBS’s audience.

Attracting a New Audience: Weiss’s involvement could attract viewers who feel alienated by mainstream media, aligning with Ellison’s apparent interest in non-traditional talent. This could expand CBS’s reach in a competitive media landscape but risks alienating its core audience.

Competitive Pressure: As legacy media faces challenges from digital platforms and independent outlets like The Free Press, Weiss’s influence might push CBS to adopt a more confrontational or opinion-driven style to compete with these alternatives. However, this could dilute the network’s brand as a trusted news source.