David Letterman Slams 'Wreck' of CBS News Under New Leadership

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

David Letterman has unleashed a scathing critique of CBS News, branding it a 'wreck' under its recent leadership changes. The former CBS late-night host laments the network's fall from the iconic journalism of figures like Ed Murrow, arguing the new management has 'trampled on, pissed on, and eviscerated' CBS News' integrity. Letterman's comments come amid significant changes at CBS, including a merger between parent company Paramount and Skydance Media, the appointment of controversial editor-in-chief Bari Weiss, and the suspension of Jimmy Kimmel's show after he criticized network owners.

Why it matters

Letterman's scathing remarks have sparked a media frenzy, shining a light on the perceived decline of CBS News' journalistic standards and integrity under new leadership. His comments raise questions about the network's direction, the influence of corporate mergers, and the role of political ideology in shaping news coverage.

The details

In a clip from The Barbara Gaines Show, Letterman unleashed his frustration with the current state of CBS News, recalling the network's storied past under iconic figures like Ed Murrow. He believes the new leadership has 'trampled on, pissed on, and eviscerated' CBS News' integrity. Letterman's criticism comes amid significant changes at the network, including a merger between parent company Paramount and Skydance Media, owned by billionaire David Ellison. This merger has been controversial, especially after Paramount settled a $16 million lawsuit with Donald Trump over a 60 Minutes interview that aired during the 2024 election. The timing of CBS canceling The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, just days after Colbert criticized the settlement, has also raised eyebrows. The appointment of Bari Weiss as CBS News' editor-in-chief, known for her criticism of 'woke' culture and lacking television experience, has further fueled the fire. Weiss' tenure has been described as chaotic, with a poorly rated town hall event and abrupt staff changes. Letterman also weighed in on the suspension of Jimmy Kimmel's show, praising Kimmel for holding network owners accountable and exposing the 'fools' in charge.

• In April 2026, David Letterman made his comments on The Barbara Gaines Show.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The future of CBS News' leadership and direction remains uncertain as the network navigates the aftermath of Letterman's scathing critique and the ongoing changes within the company.