NEW YORK – In a surprising turn of events, the remaining correspondents of CBS News’ iconic show “60 Minutes” have decided to stick around, at least for now. Lesley Stahl, Jon Wertheim, and Bill Whitaker expressed their commitment to the show, saying, “We don’t want to see ‘60 Minutes’ die.”
This decision comes amid significant turmoil within the show, following a series of controversial firings that left many in the newsroom feeling unsettled. In a memo shared with their colleagues, the trio voiced their frustration over the dismissals, which included well-respected figures like Sharyn Alfonsi and Cecilia Vega, as well as longtime executive producer Tanya Simon.
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The memo, which was obtained by The Associated Press, conveyed a sense of loyalty to the show’s mission of delivering independent journalism. “We want to express how sorry we are that these principled, fair and honest journalists were treated so shabbily,” they wrote. Despite this, they remain hopeful and are attempting to build trust with the new executive producer, Nick Bilton.
Their message was clear: they will stay as long as they can continue doing the kind of journalism that has made “60 Minutes” a staple in American broadcast news. “If we can continue doing the work that made this show what it is — committing acts of independent, fearless journalism and storytelling — we’re here for it,” they stated. “If not, we leave.”
The stakes are high for Bilton, who has the challenging task of steering the show into its next season, set to premiere in September. With the departure of four key correspondents, including Anderson Cooper who left earlier this year, the show’s future is uncertain.
The upheaval at “60 Minutes” isn’t entirely new; tensions have been brewing for over a year, especially after former President Donald Trump filed a lawsuit against the show. This lawsuit stemmed from their editing of a contentious interview, and it was part of broader changes at CBS News after Bari Weiss took on the role of editor-in-chief.
CBS News, a cornerstone of American journalism, has faced increasing challenges, including the recent decision to shut down its radio division. Many view the network’s once-untouchable reputation as being under threat, particularly after a $16 million settlement related to the Trump lawsuit.
As the media landscape continues to evolve, the upcoming season of “60 Minutes” will be closely watched to see how it adapts to these changes. “Here’s to Season 59!” the correspondents concluded in their memo, expressing a glimmer of hope for the future.
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Jocelyn Noveck covers the intersection of media and entertainment for The Associated Press.
