CBS News’ ’60 Minutes’ Faces Turmoil Amid Staff Changes

The three remaining correspondents of CBS News’ ’60 Minutes’ have chosen to stay amid recent turmoil within the program. Lesley Stahl, Jon Wertheim, and Bill Whitaker expressed their frustration and sorrow over the recent dismissals of staff in a memo obtained by The Associated Press.

The dismissals were instigated by Bari Weiss, the new editor-in-chief of CBS News, and Nick Bilton, the newly-appointed executive producer. This led to the firing of Tanya Simon and correspondents Sharyn Alfonsi and Cecilia Vega, among others. Scott Pelley was also dismissed following a confrontation with CBS News management.

In their memo, the correspondents expressed disappointment over how their principled colleagues were treated. They stated their intent to rebuild trust with Bilton, indicating they may leave the show if their journalistic standards are not maintained.

The show’s upcoming season, launching in September, depends on stabilizing the team after these changes. Anderson Cooper also departed earlier this year, leaving the show with four fewer correspondents.

Turmoil began over a year ago when former President Donald Trump sued the program over the editing of an interview with Kamala Harris, then a presidential candidate. The lawsuit was settled for $16 million, causing further internal issues at CBS News. This settlement is believed to have contributed to the departure of Stephen Colbert from CBS.

CBS News has faced numerous adjustments, including the cessation of its radio news operations, while remaining a central force in American broadcasting since its inception.