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Significant Changes at “60 Minutes” as Producer Bill Owens Resigns
In the latest episode of “60 Minutes,” correspondent Scott Pelley addressed the resignation of longtime producer Bill Owens.
Owens submitted his resignation on Tuesday amid an ongoing lawsuit from President Donald Trump against CBS and its parent company, Paramount.
“In recent months, it has become evident that I would not be able to exercise the independent judgment necessary for ’60 Minutes.’ I have always believed in making decisions that were best for the show and its audience,” Owens stated in a memo reviewed by Fox News Digital. “Having defended this program and its values from every possible angle, I have decided to step aside to allow the show to progress.”
Bill Owens’ departure as producer of “60 Minutes” was officially announced on Tuesday. (Piaras Ó Mídheach/Sportsfile for Collision via Getty Images; REUTERS/Shannon Stapleton; Screenshots/CBS News)
Acknowledgements from CBS Anchors on Owens’ Departure Linked to Corporate Challenges
Pelley expressed deep regret over Owens’ exit, highlighting his nearly 40-year tenure at CBS News, with 26 of those years dedicated to “60 Minutes.”
“Bill has covered various global events, including combat situations and significant political moments,” Pelley remarked. “He has always aimed to enlighten minds rather than close them. If you’ve ever put extra effort into your work for someone you respect, then you can understand the dynamics we have experienced here.”
He also added that Owens stepped down “for us and for you” after feeling that he had compromised his independence necessary for “genuine journalism.”
President Trump has initiated a $20 billion lawsuit against CBS, alleging election interference in relation to its coverage. (Left: (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images), Right: (Photo by Tasos Katopodis/Getty Images), Right: Photographer: Al Drago/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
“Our parent company, Paramount, is navigating a merger that requires approval from the Trump administration,” Pelley explained. “This change has led to increased oversight of our content. While none of our stories have been censored, Bill felt that he could no longer uphold the independence that honest journalism necessitates.”
“No one is pleased about this outcome, but through his resignation, Bill demonstrated that he was the right person for the ’60 Minutes’ leadership all along,” he concluded.
Fox News Digital attempted to reach CBS and Paramount for further comments.
Trump and Paramount Pursue Mediation, Indicating Settlement Efforts in CBS News Lawsuit
Trump’s lawsuit against CBS demands $20 billion, claiming election interference related to a “60 Minutes” interview last year with then-Vice President Kamala Harris. Trump accuses CBS of favoring his Democratic rival through misleading editing just weeks before the election. Paramount Global has agreed to mediate, suggesting potential for settlement.
Pelley discussed Owens’ resignation during Sunday night’s episode. (Screenshot/CBS)
There are concerns surrounding Paramount’s willingness to settle with Trump, with detractors claiming it risks “yielding to pressure.”
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