CBS News anchor Norah O’Donnell is encouraging viewers, especially those critical of her boss Bari Weiss, to watch “CBS Mornings.” The network announced O’Donnell’s return to its morning lineup. O’Donnell led “CBS This Morning” from 2012 to 2019 and is joining Gayle King and Nate Burleson. Tony Dokoupil, the previous host, now anchors “CBS Evening News.” O’Donnell will officially return post-Labor Day.
Show’s Producer Comments
“This is a homecoming for Norah,” said the show’s producer Jon Tower to the staff. He called her seven-year stint with Gayle King a memorable partnership in morning news history. “They share a friendship and chemistry that extend beyond the studio,” Tower added.
Criticism Over Weiss’ Appointment
Despite O’Donnell’s return, some CBS audiences are discontent, particularly with Bari Weiss’ new role as CBS News’ editor-in-chief. David Ellison, the new Paramount CEO, appointed Weiss. Critics voiced their opinions on Instagram, questioning the network’s direction under Weiss and Ellison.
O’Donnell actively engaged with these criticisms. When a user expressed dissatisfaction about Weiss and wished for O’Donnell to join another network, she replied, “This is so silly. Just watch our show!” Another user commented on not watching CBS due to a past controversy, to which O’Donnell said, “Give us a try.” When another user remarked on being unable to watch CBS due to Weiss, O’Donnell suggested they “Watch our show.”
Changes at “60 Minutes”
O’Donnell is also joining “60 Minutes” amidst the program’s significant lineup changes. Several correspondents, including Sharyn Alfonsi, Cecilia Vega, Scott Pelley, and Anderson Cooper, have exited. Ross Douthat, formerly of The New York Times, joins as a new correspondent.
Weiss and Ellison’s Vision
Weiss faces criticism from far-left critics despite her liberal stance. Both Weiss and Ellison aim to appeal to politically centrist viewers. Paramount’s potential acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery for $111 billion might place both CBS News and CNN under Ellison’s control. This has raised concerns among CNN staff about potential impacts on the network.
The merger faces a delay due to an antitrust lawsuit by California Attorney General Rob Bonta, with a trial planned for March 2027. Possible outcomes could involve a settlement or a forced spinoff of CNN.
Joseph A. Wulfsohn is a media reporter for Fox News Digital. He can be contacted with story tips at [email protected] and on Twitter: @JosephWulfsohn.
Leave a Reply