The Rise and Fall of Bari Weiss: From The View to CBS News
Once a contender for the coveted spot on The View, Bari Weiss, the newly appointed editor-in-chief of CBS News, faced a surprising twist of fate. Despite her aspirations to join the show's right-leaning panel, Variety's report reveals that her journey to becoming a prominent journalist took an unexpected turn. In 2021, as Meghan McCain exited The View due to on-air tensions, Weiss saw an opportunity to step into the spotlight.
However, the path to hosting a prominent talk show is rarely straightforward. According to Variety, Weiss's audition for The View fell short due to her political stance, which didn't resonate with the audience. Her centrist-right views, while controversial, failed to secure her a spot on the show. An ABC insider further adds a layer of complexity, suggesting that it was her physical appearance that ultimately led the network to choose Alyssa Farah Griffin, a former Trump aide.
The search for a conservative voice on The View continued, and Weiss, despite her efforts, was not the chosen one. An insider source clarifies that the show's requirement for a Republican host might have been a significant factor in her disqualification. Weiss's agents' aggressive campaigns to secure her a spot on the show went unnoticed, as the network had already made its decision.
Fast forward to today, and Weiss finds herself at the helm of CBS News, a position that comes with immense influence and a $150 million acquisition of her site, The Free Press. This appointment also opens doors for potential leadership roles at CNN, according to Variety. Her appointment, however, has sparked debates, especially given her pro-Israel stance, which contrasts with some of CBS's pro-Palestinian staff. Critics argue that her lack of traditional newsroom experience might be a challenge.
Despite the controversies, Weiss remains steadfast in her commitment to journalism. In a memo to staff, she vowed to produce content that holds both political parties to equal scrutiny. As she navigates her new role, the question remains: Can she bridge the gaps and create a balanced narrative in the ever-evolving landscape of media?
