60 Minutes Faces Major Overhaul: Layoffs and a New Direction Under Bari Weiss
CBS News’s flagship program, 60 Minutes, is bracing for significant changes this summer, with potential layoffs impacting some of its most prominent talent and producers. The news comes on the heels of a 6% workforce reduction at CBS News last month, which included the closure of its nearly century-old radio division.
Impending Layoffs and a Shift in Focus
Sources indicate that the layoffs at 60 Minutes are slated for June, following buyout offers extended to staff at CBS Evening News earlier this year. The move signals a broader restructuring effort within CBS News, raising concerns among staff about job security.
According to insiders, CBS News editor-in-chief Bari Weiss aims to refocus the program on investigative journalism and hard-hitting scoops. This shift involves scaling back what she perceives as an overabundance of “soft programming” that has characterized recent seasons. “Bari wants to make the show harder,” one source revealed. “No one is talking about ‘60 Minutes’ on Monday morning.”
Weiss’s Vision for 60 Minutes
Weiss’s strategy reportedly involves either replacing top producers or correspondents to assert her influence on the show. Recent segments featuring interviews with a mentalist (mentalism) and explorations of niche topics like chess boxing and Swiss watchmaking have reportedly not met with her approval. A longtime CBS executive acknowledged the need for a refresh, stating that the show needs to “lean into harder reporting.”
Potential Departures and Contract Negotiations
Several prominent figures are reportedly under consideration for potential departures. Scott Pelley, a veteran correspondent known for his critical reporting on the Trump administration, is facing scrutiny as his contract nears its expiration. While some suggest a buyout, others believe Weiss may seek to renegotiate his substantial salary (estimated between $6.9 million and $8.5 million). Recent reports suggest Weiss may be warming to Pelley, however.
Other correspondents, including Sharyn Alfonsi and Lesley Stahl, are also facing uncertainty as their contracts come up for renewal. The absence of Anderson Cooper, who did not renew his contract, further complicates the landscape. Norah O’Donnell and Matt Gutman are potential candidates to fill the void, but the focus remains on aligning the program with Weiss’s vision.
Internal Conflicts and Corporate Pressure
The overhaul isn’t without internal friction. Pelley has publicly criticized both former President Trump and CBS’s parent company, Paramount Skydance, raising concerns among corporate leaders. He also voiced his disapproval of Weiss’s decision to shelve a segment on El Salvador’s CECOT prison, urging her to take her role “more seriously.”
Weiss is reportedly prioritizing loyalty as she reshapes the program, aiming to dismantle internal silos and streamline operations. The future of 60 Minutes hinges on her ability to navigate these challenges and restore the show’s reputation for impactful investigative journalism.
As Variety reports, the changes are poised to be substantial, marking a new era for one of television’s most iconic news programs.
