CBS News begins new major round of layoffs: ‘This is really hard and really tough’ CBS News announced it is laying off dozens of employees and ending its nearly 100-year-old radio service, CBS News Radio, as part of a strategic restructuring. The decision was communicated in a memo to staff from editor-in-chief Bari Weiss and president Tom Cibrowski, who informed employees by the end of the day whether their positions were affected. The cuts are expected to impact approximately 6% of the roughly 1,100-person staff, though earlier estimates had suggested a higher percentage. The radio service will cease operations on May 22, 2026, with the CBS News Radio team and about 700 affiliated stations notified of the closure. Weiss and Cibrowski acknowledged the difficulty of the decision, emphasizing that the layoffs were not a reflection of employees’ performance but a response to evolving media trends and economic challenges. They described the changes as necessary to adapt to a shifting industry, noting that new audiences are emerging in different regions and that the network must invest in growth to remain competitive. “New audiences are burgeoning in new places, and we are pressing forward with ambitious plans to grow and invest so that we can be there for them,” they wrote. “That means some parts of our newsroom must get smaller to make room for the things we must build to remain competitive.” The announcement followed an earlier round of layoffs in late October, which had been described as a “blood bath” by some staff. Weiss was more directly involved in planning the latest cuts, which come amid ongoing restructuring efforts. The network has also faced departures of key staff, including justice correspondent Scott MacFarlane, who left earlier this month.#paramount #cbs_news #tom_cibrowski #bary_weiss #warner_bros_discovery
Warner Bros. Discovery’s First Post-Merger Premiere Sparks Laughter with Comedy Rooster Warner Bros. Discovery’s first major premiere since its $111 billion merger with Paramount was a comedy, marking a significant moment for the merged entertainment giant. The show, Rooster, co-created by Bill Lawrence—known for hits like Ted Lasso and Scrubs—debuted on HBO, becoming one of the network’s first half-hour series in years. The premiere, held on Sunday, drew a packed audience and generated widespread enthusiasm, particularly for its ensemble cast and sharp humor. The screening, held at a New York venue, was met with explosive laughter, with Steve Carell and the supporting cast delivering standout performances. Attendees were particularly moved by the show’s opening credits, which featured HBO’s iconic “static angel” sequence, prompting a hearty ovation. Lawrence, who opened the event with lighthearted remarks, acknowledged the challenges of the industry’s current climate while expressing gratitude for the team’s dedication. “It’s not a normal feeling for me,” he said, adding, “I’m feeling joyful… at a time when it’s kind of hard to feel joyful.” Lawrence’s comments subtly referenced the ongoing upheaval in Hollywood, including the merger’s impact on the industry. He praised the cast and crew, emphasizing the collective effort behind the project. “I’m proud of everyone in here and everyone couldn’t make it that worked on the show,” he said, acknowledging the emotional weight of the moment. The after-party at The Pool reflected the broader mood within Warner Bros. Discovery as executives navigate the complexities of the merger. One senior executive, speaking candidly, noted the uncertainty of the situation: “I just keep showing up. When my phone stops working, that’s how you’ll know.#bill_lawrence #steve_carell #hbo #warner_bros_discovery #the_pool
