đ Share this article Ex- New York Times Writer Takes Over CBS Following Paramount Deal The media conglomerate has appointed former New York Times commentator Bari Weiss to oversee CBS News, marking the newest move by recent acquirers to restructure operations of one of America's leading news networks. The company is furthermore buying The Free Press, the online publication Weiss founded after her acrimonious exit from the New York Times, in a arrangement estimated to be worth $150 million. Ms Weiss, who has criticised television news for becoming overly political, said she was eager to shape CBS, which was purchased by David Ellison in recent months as part of a wider merger with Paramount. Background of the New Leader Ms Weiss, who began her professional journey at Jewish news outlets, is known for her backing of Israel and her skepticism of "woke culture". Beginning as a digital bulletin in 2021, The Free Press has gained 1.5 million followers, including over 170,000 subscribing supporters. It has drawn attention for reports such as a feature critical of NPR by one of its ex- business editors, as well as an analysis of some photos used by traditional journalism to depict famine in Gaza. Big name contributors 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 bigger campaign to refresh content at Paramount and make CBS the "most-trusted name in news". "We think the greater part of the country wants news that is balanced and accurate, and we want CBS to be their home," he said. More Change at CBS Specifics of the deal were not disclosed. Paramount refused to discuss accounts that the firm had paid $150 million in shares and money. Mr Ellison made his name as a Hollywood film producer of blockbusters such as Top Gun Maverick, True Grit and World War Z. He has said his objective is to produce reporting that is less politically skewed, and therefore has the ability to engage all demographics. His acquisition of Paramount was authorized by oversight bodies this season, after the company consented to pay $16 million to resolve a court case. To secure clearance of the deal, Mr Ellison agreed to install an independent ombudsman at CBS to examine complaints of prejudice and committed to oversight bodies that coverage would include a variety of opinions. He additionally said CBS's veteran political show "Face the Nation" would cease to air altered conversations. Partnership Details CBS News has a partnership agreement with an international broadcaster, meaning news material including visual material can be shared. In a message announcing the deal, Ms Weiss said she trusted in the Paramount leader and his leadership team. "They are committing fully because they have faith in news. Because they have conviction. Because they cherish this country. And because they appreciate, as we do, that America cannot prosper without common facts, agreed principles, and a shared perspective," she wrote.