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The media conglomerate has named former New York Times commentator Bari Weiss to oversee CBS News, signaling the latest step by recent acquirers to reorganize operations of a prominent American news networks.

Paramount is furthermore acquiring The Free Press, the online publication Weiss started after her disputed departure from the New York Times, in a arrangement estimated to be worth $150 million.

Ms Weiss, who has questioned television news for becoming too partisan, said she was eager to shape CBS, which was taken over by David Ellison in recent months as part of a larger merger with Paramount.

History of the Executive

Ms Weiss, who began her professional journey at Jewish media organizations, 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 accumulated 1.5 million readers, including over 170,000 subscribing supporters.

It has drawn attention for articles such as a feature skeptical of NPR by one of its ex- business editors, as well as an investigation of some photos used by established media to showcase famine in Gaza.

Big name authors include academic Niall Ferguson and economic thinker Tyler Cowen.

Future Direction

Mr Ellison said the hiring 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 greater part of the country longs for news that is balanced and truthful, and we want CBS to be their destination," he said.

More Change at CBS

Details of the arrangement were not made public. Paramount refused to discuss accounts that the company had paid $150 million in equity and currency.

Mr Ellison built his career 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 reporting that is more balanced politically, and therefore has the potential to connect with all audiences.

His takeover of Paramount was authorized by government authorities this season, after the company committed to pay $16 million to resolve a court case.

To secure clearance of the transaction, Mr Ellison pledged to install an independent ombudsman at CBS to assess allegations of prejudice and committed to authorities that content would showcase a variety of perspectives.

He also said CBS's established political show "Face the Nation" would discontinue air edited interviews.

Alliance Facts

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

In a message revealing the arrangement, Ms Weiss said she had faith in the Paramount executive and his management group.

"They are making significant investments because they have faith in news. Because they have courage. Because they cherish this country. And because they understand, as we do, that America cannot succeed without mutual understanding, common truths, and a shared perspective," she wrote.