Anderson Cooper told colleagues he doesn’t want to work for Bari Weiss: report
CNN Star Anderson Cooper Expresses Concerns About Potential CBS News Leadership
Renowned CNN anchor Anderson Cooper has reportedly conveyed his reluctance to work under CBS News executive Bari Weiss in the event that she assumes control of the cable network post Paramount Skydance’s proposed acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery, as per a report by the New York Times.
Cooper’s reservations are part of a broader sentiment within CNN, with other prominent figures also indicating their opposition to a potential future led by Weiss.
Resistance from CNN Leadership
CNN CEO Mark Thompson has made it clear to Paramount officials that he is not in favor of sharing oversight of the network with another executive. Similarly, anchor Jake Tapper recently had a meeting with Paramount CEO David Ellison in Los Angeles.
The Times report suggests that Ellison continues to support Weiss despite the turmoil within CBS News during her tenure, marked by significant changes in the news division since she assumed the role of editor-in-chief last year.
Potential Leadership Structure
One proposed option is to pair Weiss with an experienced television executive responsible for the operational and financial aspects of the combined news organizations, while Weiss retains editorial oversight.
Cooper’s History with Weiss
Cooper’s reservations about Weiss date back to earlier interactions at CBS News. Weiss had approached Cooper about taking over as anchor of the “CBS Evening News,” a role that ultimately went to Tony Dokoupil. Subsequently, Cooper chose not to renew his contract with “60 Minutes” to focus on his commitments at CNN.
Reports suggest that Cooper was uneasy with the direction of CBS News under Weiss following the departures of key personnel and the restructuring of “60 Minutes.”
Turbulent Period at CBS News
Weiss’ leadership at CBS News has been marked by significant upheaval, including the dismissal of several senior journalists and the firing of veteran correspondent Scott Pelley. These changes have raised concerns among CNN staff as Paramount moves closer to acquiring Warner Bros. Discovery.
Amidst the uncertainty, CNN executive Amy Entelis has emerged as a source of support for anxious anchors and correspondents, while technology journalist Kara Swisher has expressed her intentions to discontinue collaboration with CNN if Ellison replaces Thompson.
CNN has referred inquiries to Paramount, while The Post is awaiting comments from Paramount, Cooper, Weiss, and Thompson.
