Former '60 Minutes' Chief Criticizes CBS News Over Management Changes

Bill Owens, former executive producer of "60 Minutes," voiced his concerns on Monday regarding the recent changes in management at CBS News, suggesting that the new leadership does not uphold the traditional values of the institution. Speaking at the New York Press Club awards ceremony, Owens criticized the hiring of Bari Weiss as Editor in Chief and the appointment of Nick Bilton as the show's new head, claiming that partisans and ideologues are now influencing the newsmagazine.

Owens noted that significant departures occurred within the show's senior leadership, mentioning the ousting of Tanya Simon, Draggan Mihailovich, and correspondents Sharyn Alfonsi and Cecilia Vega. He pointed out, "The senior leadership at '60 Minutes' were all fired at once. There wasn’t any cause given."

In response to the management changes, "60 Minutes" correspondent Scott Pelley expressed his dissatisfaction during a staff meeting, questioning the qualifications of Weiss and Bilton and demanding clarity over the firings. He described Weiss's approach as detrimental to the program, stating it feels like an attack on the show's foundational principles.

Owens remarked on Pelley’s commitment to the show, referencing past correspondents who upheld its integrity. He indicated that the environment has shifted since Paramount's acquisition, claiming that promises made to maintain journalistic freedom have not been fulfilled. Owens further alleged that Weiss's pro-Israel stance has led to the exit of several colleagues who felt restricted in their coverage of Middle Eastern conflicts.