Scott Pelley, a prominent journalist at CBS News, was dismissed on Tuesday after ongoing disagreements over the direction of ’60 Minutes.’ This program is recognized as the leading news program in the country. Mr. Pelley, 68, has been integral to the network since 1989 and previously served as an anchor for ‘CBS Evening News.’
During a staff meeting on Monday, Mr. Pelley accused the network’s editor in chief, Bari Weiss, of critically damaging ’60 Minutes.’ His comments followed the recent removal of the show’s leadership team and two correspondents. ‘We have parted ways with Scott Pelley,’ wrote Nick Bilton, recently appointed as the ’60 Minutes’ executive producer, in a memo to the staff.
CBS News did not offer any official comment regarding the situation. A letter obtained by The New York Times from Mr. Bilton to Mr. Pelley stated that his termination was ‘effective immediately’ and for cause. Shortly after his dismissal, Mr. Pelley expressed his continued commitment to ’60 Minutes’ and highlighted his dedication to the broadcast. He cited his experiences reporting in conflict zones such as Afghanistan, Iraq, and Ukraine, which involved considerable personal risk.