“CBS Evening News” anchor Tony Dokoupil has defended his relationship with CBS and its parent company, Paramount, in the wake of controversies and high-profile departures from the network, particularly at “60 Minutes.”
Dokoupil told The Wall Street Journal that while he pays attention to comments made by departing figures, his own experience with network leadership has been different. "When they make comments like that, I pay attention," Dokoupil said. "But I can only speak for what’s happening on this side of the street, and it’s not the experience that I’ve had."
The recent turmoil includes the firing of correspondent Scott Pelley, who reportedly clashed with CBS's editor-in-chief Bari Weiss and new “60 Minutes” executive producer Nick Bilton. Pelley had accused Weiss of "murdering" his program.
Dokoupil clarified his interactions with Weiss, stating, "When it comes to Bari Weiss, she’s the editor-in-chief, she runs a 9 a.m. meeting and has lots of ideas. When we like the idea, we use it. If we don’t, and if it doesn’t work for our show, we don’t."
Some former CBS correspondents and Pelley have alleged that CBS and Paramount are altering network standards to appeal to President Donald Trump. Concerns have also been raised regarding Paramount CEO David Ellison, who appointed Weiss, and his relationship with the president.
Dokoupil stated he has never met David Ellison and does not believe Ellison would influence his show. "He’s never had a comment about my show. He’s never called me to complain about coverage. If he tried to, it wouldn’t have an impact," Dokoupil said.
Dokoupil was reportedly chosen by Weiss to anchor “CBS Evening News” and began his tenure in January. Ahead of his first broadcast, he acknowledged a public erosion of trust in media and encouraged viewers to hold him accountable. In his interview with The Wall Street Journal, Dokoupil reiterated concerns about this trend, describing it as a "crisis for journalism."