CBS News Restructures ’60 Minutes’ with New Contributors

CBS News editor-in-chief Bari Weiss has recruited Ross Douthat, a conservative columnist from the New York Times, to join ’60 Minutes’ as a correspondent. This move is part of a significant restructuring effort for the show’s 59th season, led by the newly appointed executive producer, Nick Bilton.

Bilton praised Douthat’s ability to render complex topics accessible and thoughtful. In an internal memo, he highlighted Douthat’s capacity to portray diverse perspectives with depth and empathy, saying, “Ross will bring this big and ranging curiosity to our air.” With Douthat’s addition, CBS aims to enrich the program’s narrative style.

“He makes controversial topics approachable and renders characters and points of view with richness and compassion. Ross will bring this big and ranging curiosity to our air,” said Nick Bilton.

The departure of Douthat from the New York Times marks the end of a 17-year tenure. New York Times Opinion editor Kathleen Kingsbury expressed gratitude to Douthat for his contributions, acknowledging his commitment to robust discourse. A Times spokesperson opted not to provide further comments regarding Douthat’s departure.

CBS News anchor Norah O’Donnell will also be joining ’60 Minutes’ as a correspondent, a position that aligns with her longstanding presence on the program. Executive producer Nick Bilton remarked on O’Donnell’s previous contributions, which include high-profile interviews with leaders such as Pope Francis, President Trump, President Biden, and Mohammed bin Salman.

Further additions to ’60 Minutes’ include Sebastian Junger, a journalist and documentary filmmaker; Gianna Toboni, a former Vice News correspondent; and Trevor Phillips, a former Sky News presenter who now serves as CBS News’s senior global affairs correspondent. Bari Weiss and CBS News President Tom Cibrowski invited staff to welcome these new team members enthusiastically.

“We couldn’t be more excited about this news. Please join us in welcoming these new colleagues,” Weiss and Cibrowski stated.

The restructuring follows several notable departures from ’60 Minutes’, including the firing of executive producer Tanya Simon and correspondents Sharyn Alfonsi, Cecilia Vega, and Scott Pelley. The changes have led to internal tensions and criticism from some observers. However, veteran correspondents like Lesley Stahl, Bill Whitaker, and Jon Wertheim remain with the show. Additionally, Anderson Cooper announced his departure earlier in the year.