Overview

• Multiple outlets citing Puck report that talks are in final stages for Paramount to acquire The Free Press at a valuation broadly described between about $100 million and $200 million.
• Reporting says the agreement would give Bari Weiss a senior editorial role at CBS News, with some accounts suggesting she could guide the division’s direction.
• Paramount and Weiss have declined to comment as lawyers are said to be finalizing terms, and sources describe the deal as being on the “1-yard line.”
• The coverage ties the potential move to July’s Skydance–Paramount merger, which gained FCC approval with conditions including an ombudsman at CBS News and changes to DEI programs after CBS settled President Trump’s lawsuit over a 60 Minutes interview.
• Analysts and sources note The Free Press reportedly brings in roughly $15 million in annual subscriptions and relies on Substack’s platform, factors cited in debates over valuation and growth potential, while newsroom insiders warn of possible internal blowback and resignations if Weiss assumes a leadership role.