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The media conglomerate has appointed ex- NYT opinion writer Bari Weiss to oversee CBS News, marking the latest move by current leadership to restructure activities of a prominent American news outlets.

The company is furthermore buying The Free Press, the online publication Weiss founded after her acrimonious exit from the New York Times, in a agreement said to be worth $150 million.

Ms Weiss, who has criticised network journalism for becoming overly political, said she was enthusiastic to influence CBS, which was purchased by David Ellison recently as part of a wider merger with Paramount.

Background of the Executive

Ms Weiss, who commenced her work at Jewish publications, is noted for her advocacy of Israel and her skepticism of "cancel culture".

Beginning as a digital bulletin in 2021, The Free Press has accumulated 1.5 million followers, including in excess of 170,000 paying members.

It has drawn attention for articles such as a article skeptical of NPR by one of its ex- business editors, as well as an analysis of some photos used by traditional journalism to illustrate famine in Gaza.

Prominent writers include historian Niall Ferguson and economic thinker Tyler Cowen.

Strategic Plans

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

"We are convinced the bulk of the country desires news that is balanced and truthful, and we want CBS to be their source," he said.

More Change at CBS

Details of the agreement were not disclosed. Paramount would not address stories that the corporation had paid $150 million in stock and cash.

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

He has said his goal is to produce reporting that is less politically skewed, and therefore has the potential to reach all viewers.

His takeover of Paramount was approved by regulators this recent period, after the company committed to pay $16 million to resolve a court case.

To secure clearance of the transaction, Mr Ellison committed to create an independent ombudsman at CBS to review concerns of partiality and committed to oversight bodies that coverage would include a range of opinions.

He additionally said CBS's established political show "Face the Nation" would cease to air modified discussions.

Partnership Details

CBS News has a working relationship with an international broadcaster, meaning news content including recorded segments can be distributed.

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

"They are committing fully because they support news. Because they have courage. Because they love this country. And because they appreciate, as we do, that America cannot thrive without shared information, common truths, and a common reality," she commented.