CBS News President and Co-Head Wendy McMahon has announced her resignation, signaling a notable shift amidst ongoing internal conflicts and external legal pressures. McMahon’s decision comes after a challenging period marked by disagreements over the company’s direction and external legal threats relating to CBS’s coverage.
McMahon, who was appointed CEO in August 2023, indicated that the decision was driven by a divergence in views on the organization’s future path. In her resignation letter to staff, she expressed that “the company and I do not agree on the path forward,” emphasizing her intention to step aside and allow for new leadership to guide CBS.
This change coincides with intense internal and external pressures, particularly concerning CBS’s coverage of sensitive political issues and legal battles involving the network’s flagship program, “60 Minutes.” Recent weeks have seen increased scrutiny from Paramount Global’s board regarding the show’s content, especially related to stories on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the interview with Kamala Harris that drew legal criticism.
The disputes escalate amid broader corporate negotiations. Paramount Global, CBS’s parent company, is currently seeking regulatory approval for a merger with Skydance Media, a deal that could significantly alter the company’s ownership structure. However, the merger process faces delays due to investigations by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), which is scrutinizing CBS’s recent coverage decisions and diversity policies.
The legal climate remains tense, with lawsuits involving former President Donald Trump standing at the forefront. Trump has filed a $20 billion lawsuit against CBS, alleging biased editing of an interview last fall. Both McMahon and Bill Owens, the veteran “60 Minutes” executive producer who resigned last month citing loss of journalistic independence, had publicly opposed any settlement with Trump.
According to sources familiar with the situation, the company’s leadership believes resolving these legal disputes is crucial for the approval of their merger and future strategic plans. Despite the turmoil, McMahon expressed appreciation for the trust of CBS viewers, stating, “Thank you for your trust. You hold us accountable, and you remind us why this work matters.”
While McMahon’s resignation marks a significant turning point for CBS News, the network’s leadership emphasizes continuity. George Cheeks, co-CEO of Paramount and head of CBS, announced that McMahon’s key deputies will report directly to him, ensuring stability as the organization navigates these complex challenges.
