Jimmy Kimmel criticized CBS News executives during “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” following the dismissal of longtime “60 Minutes” correspondent Scott Pelley. Kimmel accused CBS of punishing Pelley for defending journalistic standards at the network.
In his monologue, Kimmel described CBS executives as “Trump suck-ups” for firing Pelley, who was known for his commitment to truth and integrity. Kimmel noted Pelley’s frustration over recent staff changes at “60 Minutes,” including the dismissal of correspondents Sharyn Alfonsi and Cecilia Vega, as well as executive producer Tanya Simon.
Kimmel stated, “Pelley had had enough after the clowns running the show fired reporter Sharyn Alfonsi and Cecilia Vega, along with executive producer Tanya Simon, replacing her with someone lacking TV news experience.”
Nick Bilton, who replaced Tanya Simon after being installed by CBS News editor-in-chief Bari Weiss, was central to the controversy. Kimmel noted Pellley’s criticism of CBS leadership and a confrontation with Bilton during a staff meeting. Kimmel recounted that Pelley called the leadership’s values untenable.
The late-night host also quipped that “60 Minutes” could be revamped in the mold of CBS’ new late-night lineup, referencing the replacement of “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” by Byron Allen’s “Comics Unleashed.”
Kimmel also addressed President Donald Trump’s reaction to Pelley’s firing. Trump had criticized Pelley in an interview with Miranda Devine, calling him “terrible” and part of a group of “stupid, crooked people.” Kimmel poked fun at Trump’s reaction, calling the decision cowardly.
The host mocked CBS over the dismissal and indicated that the news division was undergoing significant changes under new leadership.
Bilton accused Pelley of an “ambush” during his termination, as reported by The Associated Press. CBS News has not issued a comment on the firing, and Pelley expressed that “60 Minutes” had lost its core values under current management.
Pelley stated that CBS leaders had asked him to introduce falsehoods and bias in his work, an assertion he disputed. Efforts by CBS executives to find “a way back” were criticized by Pelley, who argued no such offer was made.