CBS News restructures ‘60 Minutes’ after Scott Pelley’s dismissal

CBS News has undergone a rapid overhaul of its flagship newsmagazine “60 Minutes” following the termination of veteran correspondent Scott Pelley. New executive producer Nick Bilton and editor-in-chief Bari Weiss have dismissed several senior staff, including producers Tanya Simon, Sharyn Alfonsi and Cecilia Vega, prompting concerns among remaining correspondents.

The three senior correspondents still on the program—Lesley Stahl, Bill Whitaker and Jon Wertheim—have met to discuss their future amid rumors that they may leave. CBS has publicly denied political meddling, stating, “There is no political interference at CBS News, not from ownership, not from Bari Weiss.” Bilton’s letter to Pelley warned, “Your antipathy to the future of the show has come through loud and clear.”

The network is preparing for the September 13 premiere of season 59, seeking story pitches on the Trump administration and other topics while trying to retain veteran talent. The staff turnover and leadership changes have raised questions about the magazine’s editorial direction and its ability to maintain its reputation.

Pelley, who accused the new management of weakening the program, said the changes “wreaked havoc” on the show’s operations. The outcome of negotiations with Stahl and Whitaker will shape the future lineup of correspondents for the iconic program.