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The media conglomerate has appointed ex- New York Times commentator Bari Weiss to direct CBS News, signaling the newest move by current leadership to restructure workings of one of America's leading news outlets.

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

Ms Weiss, who has challenged broadcast media for becoming too partisan, said she was excited to put her stamp on CBS, which was acquired by David Ellison earlier this year as part of a broader merger with Paramount.

Background of the Appointee

Ms Weiss, who commenced her work at Jewish news outlets, is known for her backing of Israel and her questioning of "cancel culture".

Since its start as a newsletter in 2021, The Free Press has attracted 1.5 million readers, including over 170,000 paid subscribers.

It has drawn attention for articles such as a article questioning of NPR by one of its previous business editors, as well as an examination of some photographs used by mainstream news outlets to depict famine in Gaza.

Notable writers include academic Niall Ferguson and economist Tyler Cowen.

Vision for CBS

Mr Ellison said the selection of Ms Weiss as chief editor was part of a larger campaign to refresh coverage at Paramount and make CBS the "most credible name in news".

"We believe the majority of the country desires news that is even-handed and fact-based, and we want CBS to be their source," he said.

More Change at CBS

Specifics of the deal were not disclosed. Paramount would not address stories that the firm had paid $150 million in stock and cash.

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 goal is to produce coverage that is less politically skewed, and therefore has the ability to connect with all viewers.

His acquisition of Paramount was authorized by oversight bodies this summer, after the company consented to pay $16 million to conclude a legal action.

To obtain consent of the deal, Mr Ellison committed to install an impartial arbitrator at CBS to review allegations of prejudice and committed to authorities that coverage would reflect a range of perspectives.

He additionally said CBS's established political show "Face the Nation" would no longer air altered conversations.

Partnership Details

CBS News has a collaborative arrangement with another major network, meaning news material including video footage can be shared.

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

"They are making significant investments because they support news. Because they have conviction. Because they love this country. And because they understand, as we do, that America cannot succeed without common facts, agreed principles, and a unified worldview," she wrote.