CBS News Chief Bari Weiss Eyes Global Talent, Meets BBC’s Justin Webb

EXCLUSIVE: Bari Weiss has shown a keen interest in UK journalists, as evidenced by CBS News’ recent unexpected recruitment of Sky News anchor Trevor Phillips, say sources from the British media sector.

Recently, Weiss has been seen in London exploring possibilities for CBS News and The Free Press to expand their presence internationally.

According to Deadline, Weiss was seen having lunch with Justin Webb, a veteran BBC journalist and the voice behind Radio 4’s Today show and the Americast podcast.

While there was no specific position discussed for Webb, sources indicate that Weiss is interested in the UK media landscape and is eager to connect with journalists who are known for their independent thinking.

CBS News did not provide a comment when asked.

Webb, who must adhere to the BBC’s stringent impartiality standards, has faced criticism and had complaints upheld against him regarding his comments on trans rights, including a controversial remark made in 2023 on Radio 4. He also writes a column for Rupert Murdoch’s The Times of London.

“Trevor might just be the first of many UK talents to join,” speculated an industry insider after Weiss brought Phillips on board as CBS News’ senior global affairs correspondent. Another source from the UK noted, “Trevor Phillips aligns well with her strategy.”

In announcing Phillips’ appointment, Weiss praised him for his ability to “cut through the noise” and commended his long-standing career for challenging conventional thinking and pursuing truth.

The Free Press, which was taken over by Paramount Skydance last year, has also recently brought on Douglas Murray, a columnist for the New York Post and an associate editor at The Spectator.

Partnership with BBC News

Weiss’ controversial leadership at CBS News has caught the attention of many in the UK, particularly due to her overhaul of 60 Minutes and her perceived compliance with the Trump administration.

This scrutiny is heightened by CBS News’ collaboration with BBC News, initiated in 2017. Some speculate that Weiss’ actions might clash with the BBC’s commitment to impartiality.

BBC insiders have described the partnership as primarily logistical, involving sharing of footage and resources behind the scenes, although the BBC News website frequently references CBS as its “U.S. news partner.”

A seasoned BBC journalist expressed concern over the partnership, whereas a former BBC News executive remarked, “The political views of a network head are less important than actual content delivery. The BBC should maintain vigilance over its impartiality and objectivity with any partner.”

A BBC spokesperson emphasized, “BBC News operates with full editorial independence, and all our content must align with our publicly accessible editorial standards. This partnership, like others we have globally, is centered around the exchange of news content, including video footage.”