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The media conglomerate has named ex- NYT opinion writer Bari Weiss to direct CBS News, marking the most recent step by current leadership to reorganize workings of a major US news outlets.

Paramount is additionally buying The Free Press, the online publication Weiss started after her acrimonious separation from the New York Times, in a agreement said to be worth $150 million.

Ms Weiss, who has challenged network journalism for becoming too partisan, said she was enthusiastic to put her stamp on CBS, which was taken over by David Ellison recently as part of a wider merger with Paramount.

History of the Appointee

Ms Weiss, who began her professional journey at Jewish media organizations, is noted for her support of Israel and her questioning of "cancel culture".

Beginning as a digital bulletin in 2021, The Free Press has accumulated 1.5 million followers, including more than 170,000 subscribing supporters.

It has received recognition for articles such as a article questioning of NPR by one of its former business editors, as well as an analysis of some photos used by established media to illustrate famine in Gaza.

Big name authors include scholar Niall Ferguson and economist Tyler Cowen.

Strategic Plans

Mr Ellison said the selection of Ms Weiss as chief editor was part of a broader initiative to modernize programming at Paramount and make CBS the "most reliable name in news".

"We are convinced the majority of the country wants news that is balanced and accurate, and we want CBS to be their destination," he said.

Further Developments at CBS

Specifics of the arrangement were not revealed. Paramount declined to comment accounts that the company had paid $150 million in stock and cash.

Mr Ellison built his career as a Hollywood cinematic creator of major films such as Top Gun Maverick, True Grit and World War Z.

He has said his aim is to produce reporting that is less partisan, and therefore has the potential to connect with all viewers.

His acquisition of Paramount was approved by government authorities this summer, after the company agreed to pay $16 million to resolve a court case.

To win approval of the transaction, Mr Ellison committed to install an independent ombudsman at CBS to review concerns of partiality and vowed to authorities that coverage would include a range of view points.

He further said CBS's veteran political show "Face the Nation" would no longer air modified discussions.

Partnership Details

CBS News has a working relationship with a global news organization, meaning news content including recorded segments can be exchanged.

In a note announcing the deal, Ms Weiss said she had faith in the Paramount leader and his leadership team.

"They are committing fully because they believe in news. Because they have conviction. Because they value this country. And because they understand, as we do, that America cannot succeed without mutual understanding, common truths, and a shared perspective," she stated.