CBS News has announced a significant shakeup for its long-standing program “60 Minutes” as it prepares for its 59th season. Bari Weiss, the network’s editor-in-chief, has brought in Ross Douthat, her former colleague from The New York Times, as a new correspondent.
Nick Bilton, the newly appointed executive producer of “60 Minutes,” shared the news with the team, highlighting Douthat’s ability to make controversial subjects accessible while providing depth and empathy in his portrayals. This change is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the program.
Ross Douthat’s departure from the Times after 17 years was addressed by Opinion Editor Kathleen Kingsbury. In a note to staff, she praised him for his integrity in argument and his contributions to the paper.
Norah O’Donnell, a CBS News veteran, will also join “60 Minutes” as a correspondent. Known for her impactful interviews with notable figures like Pope Francis and President Biden, O’Donnell has been contributing to the show for over a decade.
The memo from Nick Bilton also mentioned additional recruits for the program. These include journalist and filmmaker Sebastian Junger, former Vice News correspondent Gianna Toboni, and Trevor Phillips, a former Sky News presenter who will serve as a senior global affairs correspondent.
Bari Weiss and CBS News President Tom Cibrowski expressed their enthusiasm for these new appointments, inviting the team to welcome these colleagues warmly.
This announcement follows a series of high-profile departures from “60 Minutes.” Executive producer Tanya Simon, correspondents Sharyn Alfonsi, Cecilia Vega, and Scott Pelley have all left the program. Remaining with the show are correspondents Lesley Stahl, Bill Whitaker, and Jon Wertheim, though Anderson Cooper announced his departure earlier this year.