CBS News Correspondent Criticizes Leadership Changes at '60 Minutes'

NEW YORK (AP) — CBS correspondent Scott Pelley expressed strong criticism of CBS News head Bari Weiss and the new executive producer Nick Bilton during a staff meeting. Pelley accused Weiss of damaging the show and questioned Bilton's qualifications, referring to them as 'slender.' These comments were reported by Status, which claims to have a recording of the meeting. Pelley raised concerns about the recent firings of Bilton’s predecessor, Tanya Simon, and correspondents Sharyn Alfonsi and Cecilia Vega. He stated that Weiss had 'no qualifications for her job' and described the changes she implemented at 'CBS Evening News' as 'catastrophic.' Bilton defended Weiss, asserting her commitment to the institution. A source close to CBS News indicated that both Weiss and Bilton had attempted to reach out to Pelley privately before the meeting. The meeting occurred shortly after Weiss announced a 'new approach' for '60 Minutes,' aiming to adapt the show for contemporary audiences. Pelley received support from other staff members during the meeting, who applauded his remarks. Bilton responded to Pelley’s accusations by stating that he was not intimidated by the criticism.