Bari Weiss unveils eclectic CBS News contributor lineup
In a bold move to reshape CBS News, editor-in-chief Bari Weiss has introduced a list of 19 paid contributors, blending wellness advocates, conservative voices, and a theoretical cosmologist. The announcement, made on Tuesday, signals Weiss's vision to modernise the network and reconnect with disaffected viewers and staff, though the frequency and context of their appearances remain unspecified.
A diverse cast for a troubled network
Weiss, often labelled a "millennial media maven" or critic of rightwing rhetoric, has curated an eye-opening roster amid concerns over CBS's direction under billionaire David Ellison, an ally of Donald Trump. The contributors span podcasters, influencers, restaurateurs, and writers, with a focus on topics like nutrition, longevity, and cosmology, infused with conservative ideology.
Spotlight on key contributors
Elliot Ackerman, a former US marine and bestselling author, has praised Trump as a "combat leader" and advocated for reinstating the military draft, despite Trump's history of draft avoidance.
Peter Attia, dubbed "the internet's favourite doctor" by some, offers anti-ageing advice through a subscription model, though critics question his medical credentials and label him a wellness grifter.
Clare de Boer, a British-born chef and restaurateur, brings a lifestyle angle, balancing multiple ventures including writing for the New York Times and parenting four young sons.
Niall Ferguson, a Glasgow-born historian, has criticised "wokeism" in education and resigned from a Stanford program after urging opposition research on a progressive student.
Andrew Huberman, a neuroscientist with a massive online following, promotes dietary supplements, but faces allegations of pseudoscience and personal misconduct in media profiles.
Coleman Hughes, a young Black conservative, opposes DEI initiatives and reparations, and has questioned aspects of George Floyd's murder in writings for Weiss's Free Press.
Mark Hyman, a friend of RFK Jr, built a wellness empire sceptical of vaccines, with businesses generating millions in revenue annually.
Janna Levin, a cosmologist, explores universe mysteries in her Substack, offering unconventional takes on climate change as an interplay of "hot bodies".
Reihan Salam, president of the Manhattan Institute, has argued for Trump's pragmatism on immigration, despite recent events contradicting such claims.
Strategic implications for CBS News
This eclectic mix aims to position CBS as "fit for purpose in the 21st century", according to Weiss. However, the inclusion of figures with controversial views, such as climate deniers and vaccine sceptics, raises questions about the network's editorial balance and potential pandering to political interests. As CBS seeks to carve a new path, the impact of these contributors on its credibility and audience trust will be closely watched in the coming months.
