Tensions Rise at '60 Minutes' Following Bill Owens' Exit Amid Corporate Oversight
Bill Owens resigns as executive producer of '60 Minutes' citing loss of independence, sparking internal concerns over corporate influence from Paramount and ongoing Trump lawsuit.
Scott Pelley defends Owens' resignation amid changes at CBS’ ‘60 Minutes’
Straight Arrow News
'60 Minutes' blames Paramount for producer's resignation
Washington Examiner
Summary
Bill Owens has resigned as executive producer of '60 Minutes' after 26 years, citing a loss of independence due to Paramount's new supervision and a contentious merger with Skydance Media. Correspondent Scott Pelley condemned the corporate influence during the program's April 27 episode, highlighting the ongoing $20 billion lawsuit from Donald Trump regarding alleged deceptive editing of an interview with Kamala Harris. Owens emphasized the need for editorial independence, leading to his resignation. Despite internal strife, '60 Minutes' continues to deliver critical coverage of significant political issues, including Trump's administration, amid scrutiny over corporate oversight.
Sources (8)
- Owens cited the need for independent journalism as a primary reason for his departure, emphasizing that corporate control is jeopardizing the integrity of '60 Minutes,' particularly during the ongoing lawsuit from Donald Trump.
- There is a growing sentiment among media professionals that corporate oversight diminishes journalistic integrity, especially amid rising political pressures from figures like Trump.
- Trump’s lawsuit against CBS and calls for accountability reflect a broader issue of political interference in media, contributing to a decline in public trust in news organizations.
The Guardian·24d· "…However, a rift has grown between journalists on the show and the corporate owners of CBS, Paramount Global, as leaders of the company seek to sell it to Skydance Media, a merger that needs federal approval."
CNN·24d· "…Owens’ decision to step down comes as Americans’ trust in media outlets has hit a low and as outlets find themselves under attack — including frequent jabs from the White House."
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