Paramount Skydance Acquires Bari Weiss’s The Free Press and Names Her CBS News Editor-in-Chief

Paramount Skydance has acquired The Free Press, a digital news outlet founded by Bari Weiss, for approximately $150 million.

“The deal pairs one of the country's most-respected television news brands with an upstart digital publication that is known for challenging news media norms”

TheDesk.net

This acquisition is part of a broader strategy by Paramount CEO David Ellison to modernize CBS News and expand its audience reach.

TheDesk.net

Weiss, known for her controversial views and criticism of progressive politics, will take on the role of editor-in-chief at CBS News.

The Free Press, which has about 1.5 million subscribers, will continue to operate as an independent brand under Paramount.

This move is seen as a significant shift in CBS News' editorial direction, aiming to incorporate Weiss's distinct editorial perspective, which is often described as anti-woke and pro-Israel.

Bari Weiss, a former New York Times journalist, founded The Free Press as a platform to challenge mainstream media narratives, especially those from the political left.

Her appointment as editor-in-chief of CBS News is viewed as an effort to bring her style of fearless, independent journalism to a larger audience.

Vulture

Paramount CEO David Ellison praised Weiss for her dedication to rigorous, fact-based reporting and her skill in amplifying diverse voices.

This acquisition aligns with Ellison's broader strategy to modernize content and attract a wider, more diverse American audience following Paramount's merger with Skydance Media.

The acquisition of The Free Press and Weiss's new role at CBS News have sparked debate about the potential impact on CBS's traditional news coverage.

“The purchase ends a monthslong saga over David Ellison’s pursuit of the “anti-woke” outlet Paramount has acquired Bari Weiss’ right-leaning publication The Free Press and named its founder as editor in chief of CBS News”

TheWrap

Critics are concerned that Weiss's outspoken views on issues like cancel culture and free speech may politicize CBS News, which has been known for its neutrality.

Supporters, however, see the deal as a necessary adaptation amid declining trust in media.

Paramount is betting on this synergy to boost ad revenue and subscriptions amid intense streaming competition.

The acquisition may set a precedent for other media companies considering subscription-based journalism models.

Weiss's leadership at CBS News is expected to focus on upholding core journalistic values and driving innovation across platforms.

She will report directly to David Ellison, bypassing the traditional CBS News hierarchy.

StreamTV Insider

This direct reporting line is seen as a way to ensure that Weiss's editorial vision is effectively integrated into CBS News.

Paramount's strategy includes promoting diverse viewpoints and installing an ombudsman at CBS News to address bias complaints.

The Free Press will remain an independent brand, continuing to produce content that challenges mainstream media narratives.