60 Minutes reporter says on air ‘none of us is happy’ with changes that led producer to quit
Bill Owens, the executive producer of “60 Minutes,” made headlines last week when he announced his resignation from the show. On Sunday, correspondent Scott Pelley paid tribute to Owens on air, expressing his sadness about the situation. Pelley highlighted the challenges Owens faced and commended him for putting the needs of the team and viewers first.
In his farewell message, Pelley revealed that Owens felt he no longer had the independence to run the show as he saw fit. This decision was influenced by the increased supervision imposed by corporate leaders, particularly in light of the ongoing merger between Paramount Global and Skydance Media. The Trump administration’s lawsuit against “60 Minutes” for allegedly biased editing in a Kamala Harris interview further complicated matters, with Owens and his team standing their ground against the allegations.
Despite the turmoil behind the scenes, Pelley assured viewers that no stories had been censored or blocked. However, the changes in oversight had a significant impact on Owens’ ability to uphold the principles of honest journalism. The show’s commitment to delivering hard-hitting stories, particularly those critical of the Trump administration, remained unwavering. From investigative reports on healthcare cutbacks to in-depth interviews with scientists, “60 Minutes” continued to uphold its reputation for quality journalism.
As the show navigates these challenging times, former CBS News president Susan Zirinsky has been brought in to review stories before they air. While the team grapples with the loss of Owens’ leadership, Pelley emphasized the importance of maintaining the independence necessary for honest journalism. Despite the difficult circumstances, the show’s dedication to delivering impactful and insightful stories remains steadfast.
The legacy of Bill Owens, the third executive producer in the history of “60 Minutes,” will undoubtedly be remembered for his unwavering commitment to journalistic integrity. As the show adapts to new challenges and leadership changes, viewers can expect “60 Minutes” to continue its tradition of excellence in investigative reporting.
