The 60 Minutes host didn’t hold back in critiquing Paramount, voicing concerns about the erosion of the show’s independence.
On the recent episode of the iconic program, Scott Pelley commended his former boss while expressing issues with CBS News’ parent company, Paramount.
During his commentary at the broadcast’s conclusion, Pelley argued that due to a business transaction needing the White House’s approval, the show’s journalists were facing constraints on reporting.
Pelley highlighted that the program frequently addresses contentious issues, notably the actions and policies of former President Donald Trump and his administration.
He stated: “In tonight’s Last Minute a note on Bill Owens who, until this past week, was the executive producer of 60 Minutes.
“He was our boss, Bill was with CBS news almost 40 years, 26 years at 60 Minutes.
“He covered the world, covered combat, the White House, his was a quest to open minds, not close them.”
Pelley continued lauding his former boss, emphasizing his crucial role in the show’s success.
He then directed his remarks towards Paramount, accusing it of hindering the show’s journalistic efforts.
The host remarked that Owens chose to step down because he believed the show was losing its essential ‘independence’.
Pelley explained: “Stories that we pursued for 57 years are often controversial, lately the Israel and Gaza war and the Donald Trump administration.
“Bill made sure they were accurate and fair, he was tough that way.
“But our parent company Paramount is trying to complete a merger, the Trump administration must approve it.
“Paramount began to supervise our content in new ways, none of our stories have been blocked but Bill felt he lost the independence that honest journalism requires.
“No one here is happy about it but in resigning Bill proved one thing, he was the right person to lead 60 minutes all along.”
Donald Trump has previously criticized 60 Minutes, claiming on his social media platform that it was a ‘dishonest Political Operative simply disguised as ‘News’.
Trump is pursuing a $20 billion lawsuit against CBS, accusing them of election interference relating to its handling of a ’60 Minutes’ interview last year with then-Vice President Kamala Harris.