Bari Weiss' future at CBS News is uncertain as Paramount Skydance prepares to finalize its merger with Warner Bros. Discovery next week, according to sources. Paramount Skydance CEO David Ellison announced on Friday that the new name for the merged entity will be Skydance. Changes to Weiss' role as editor-in-chief may be considered, potentially shifting her focus from corporate managerial responsibilities to editorial matters, sources indicated.
Insiders suggested that Weiss might also contribute to CNN, which is part of the merger, even as CNN CEO Mark Thompson is reportedly negotiating an extension of his contract. A definitive decision regarding Weiss' role is not expected until after the merger is completed, which has recently overcome significant legal challenges, including a lawsuit from state attorneys general last month.
Ellison is rapidly assembling his leadership team, having appointed former Mattel CEO Ynon Kreiz as co-CEO and is expected to name HBO's Casey Bloys as the streaming chief overseeing HBO Max and Paramount+. There is speculation that Weiss could report to George Cheeks, the current chair of TV media at Paramount, which would alter her direct reporting line to Ellison. However, some sources deem this scenario unlikely.
The current reporting structure has allowed Weiss to have significant influence over major decisions, but it has also led to a power struggle with CBS News President Tom Cibrowski. Ellison, who selected Weiss to help revitalize the network, reportedly values her talent and connections but questions whether the editor-in-chief role suits her skills.
A source noted that while Weiss has made notable contributions, she has struggled with organizational leadership and has made several missteps that have negatively impacted CBS News. Weiss' attempts to revamp "60 Minutes" and the "CBS Evening News" have faced challenges, including negative press and ratings issues.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding her future, some colleagues have praised Weiss as a significant talent. Paramount has indicated that she will not assume a managerial role at CNN, despite previous considerations for her leadership there. Additionally, insiders speculate that Weiss may refocus on her own platform, "The Free Press," which was acquired by Ellison for $150 million last year.