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The media conglomerate has selected ex- NYT columnist Bari Weiss to oversee CBS News, marking the latest initiative by new owners to reorganize operations of one of America's leading news outlets.

The company is also acquiring The Free Press, the online publication Weiss established after her disputed exit from the New York Times, in a arrangement estimated to be worth $150 million.

Ms Weiss, who has questioned broadcast media for becoming overly political, said she was enthusiastic to shape CBS, which was purchased by David Ellison recently as part of a larger merger with Paramount.

History of the New Leader

Ms Weiss, who started her career at Jewish publications, is recognized for her advocacy of Israel and her skepticism of "cancel culture".

Since its start as a digital bulletin in 2021, The Free Press has gained 1.5 million readers, including over 170,000 paying members.

It has garnered notice for articles such as a piece questioning of NPR by one of its previous business editors, as well as an examination of some photos used by established media to illustrate famine in Gaza.

Big name contributors include academic Niall Ferguson and economist Tyler Cowen.

Strategic Plans

Mr Ellison said the selection of Ms Weiss as top editorial position was part of a larger initiative to update coverage at Paramount and make CBS the "most reliable name in news".

"We are convinced the greater part of the country longs for news that is balanced and fact-based, and we want CBS to be their home," he said.

Further Developments at CBS

Specifics of the deal were not disclosed. Paramount declined to comment accounts that the corporation had paid $150 million in shares and money.

Mr Ellison made his name as a Hollywood movie maker of hit movies such as Top Gun Maverick, True Grit and World War Z.

He has said his aim is to produce coverage that is more balanced politically, and therefore has the capacity to reach all audiences.

His acquisition of Paramount was approved by oversight bodies this recent period, after the company consented to pay $16 million to settle a court case.

To obtain consent of the acquisition, Mr Ellison agreed to create an independent ombudsman at CBS to assess complaints of partiality and committed to regulators that content would include a variety of view points.

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

Partnership Details

CBS News has a partnership agreement with a global news organization, meaning news content including video footage can be exchanged.

In a note declaring the agreement, Ms Weiss said she trusted in the Paramount leader and his management group.

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