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The media conglomerate has named former New York Times opinion writer Bari Weiss to lead CBS News, representing the newest step by recent acquirers to restructure workings of a major US news networks.

Paramount is furthermore acquiring The Free Press, the web-based platform Weiss founded after her disputed departure from the New York Times, in a deal said to be worth $150 million.

Ms Weiss, who has questioned network journalism for becoming too partisan, said she was excited to influence CBS, which was purchased by David Ellison earlier this year as part of a larger merger with Paramount.

Profile of the Appointee

Ms Weiss, who started her career at Jewish publications, is recognized for her support of Israel and her criticism of "call-out culture".

From its inception as a digital bulletin in 2021, The Free Press has gained 1.5 million followers, including over 170,000 paying members.

It has garnered notice for coverage such as a piece skeptical of NPR by one of its previous business editors, as well as an analysis of some images used by mainstream news outlets to depict famine in Gaza.

Notable writers include scholar Niall Ferguson and financial expert Tyler Cowen.

Strategic Plans

Mr Ellison said the appointment of Ms Weiss as chief editor was part of a broader campaign to update coverage at Paramount and make CBS the "most reliable name in news".

"We are convinced the majority of the country wants news that is fair and fact-based, and we want CBS to be their source," he said.

More Change at CBS

Terms of the arrangement were not revealed. Paramount declined to comment stories that the corporation had paid $150 million in stock and cash.

Mr Ellison established his reputation as a Hollywood film producer of blockbusters such as Top Gun Maverick, True Grit and World War Z.

He has said his aim is to produce reporting that is more balanced politically, and therefore has the potential to connect with all demographics.

His purchase of Paramount was authorized by regulators this season, after the company committed to pay $16 million to settle a legal action.

To win approval of the transaction, Mr Ellison agreed to establish an external reviewer at CBS to examine allegations of partiality and promised to authorities that content would reflect a diversity of view points.

He also said CBS's veteran political show "Face the Nation" would discontinue air altered conversations.

Alliance Facts

CBS News has a partnership agreement with a global news organization, meaning news content including video footage can be shared.

In a statement revealing the arrangement, Ms Weiss said she trusted in the Paramount boss and his executive staff.

"They are committing fully because they believe in news. Because they have conviction. Because they value this country. And because they appreciate, as we do, that America cannot prosper without mutual understanding, universal realities, and a common reality," she stated.