Bari Weiss Struggles to Revamp CBS News

Bari Weiss's efforts to overhaul CBS News as its new editor-in-chief are proving difficult, with reports of failed attempts to recruit high-profile anchors from rivals and the enduring hurdles of driving change in a legacy newsroom, even as her independent outlet The Free Press thrives with holiday cheer.

Appointed in October 2025 after Paramount Skydance acquired The Free Press for around $150 million, Weiss—known for her criticism of mainstream media bias and "woke" culture—has aimed to inject fresh energy into the struggling broadcast division. 

However, insiders describe her early tenure as "vexing," highlighted by unsuccessful pursuits of stars like Fox News' Bret Baier (contracted through 2028) and former Today host Hoda Kotb, amid contracts and resistance.

Tony Dokoupil

Her first major decision—naming CBS Mornings co-host Tony Dokoupil as solo anchor of CBS Evening News on December 10, 2025—drew mixed reactions. Dokoupil, praised for his tough 2024 interview with Ta-Nehisi Coates on Israel (previously rebuked by prior CBS leadership but defended by then-owner Shari Redstone), was seen by some as a safe, traditional choice rather than the bold shake-up expected from Weiss. Critics called it uninspiring, sticking to the "strong-jawed white man" archetype, while supporters noted it subtly challenges identity-focused hiring trends.

Weiss has impressed some with aggressive guest booking (e.g., former secretaries of State) and a direct line to CEO David Ellison, but faces culture clashes, leaks, layoffs, and skepticism over her lack of TV news experience. 

Staff mood varies: some welcome a "new force," others fret over potential rightward shifts or politicization.

Meanwhile, The Free Press continues strong growth, hosting lively events like its annual holiday party. Weiss is set to unveil her full editorial strategy soon, as CBS grapples with declining ratings and broader industry pressures in a polarized media landscape.