’60 Minutes’ Reporter Expresses Discontent Over Changes Resulting in Top Producer’s Departure

Scott Pelley, a correspondent for “60 Minutes,” recently honored Bill Owens, the show’s executive producer who resigned just last week. On air, Pelley expressed the collective sentiment of the team, stating, “none of us is happy” about the increased oversight being imposed by corporate leaders. He emphasized that Owens’ resignation demonstrated his commitment to the integrity of the program and its journalists.

Pelley remarked, “It was hard on him and it was hard on us. But he did it for us — and you.” This candid reflection offered viewers an unusual glimpse into the internal struggles of the acclaimed news program.

Owens, the third top executive in the history of “60 Minutes,” stepped down because he felt he lacked the necessary independence to run the show as he believed it should be. The resignation comes during a turbulent time for CBS News’ parent company, Paramount Global, which is undergoing a merger with Skydance Media and seeking approval from the Trump administration. Additionally, Owens’ departure follows a lawsuit from former President Trump against “60 Minutes” for $20 billion, claiming the show unfairly edited an interview to favor Vice President Kamala Harris.

Owens and the “60 Minutes” team maintain their innocence and have resisted a settlement offer. Pelley communicated to viewers that this atmosphere prompted Paramount to implement new supervisory protocols for the show. He noted that while no stories had been blocked, the editorial independence vital for honest journalism was at risk.

Despite these challenges, “60 Minutes” has continued to cover critical stories, including those involving the Trump administration. Recently, correspondent Sharyn Alfonsi interviewed experts regarding budget cuts at the National Institutes of Health, and the show remains committed to in-depth reporting amidst ongoing tensions.