NEW YORK, April 22 — The executive producer of 60 Minutes, the iconic US primetime news program, announced his resignation yesterday, citing mounting pressure and attacks on his editorial independence amid ongoing legal action by President Donald Trump.
NEW YORK, April 22 — The executive producer of 60 Minutes, the iconic US primetime news program, announced his resignation yesterday, citing mounting pressure and attacks on his editorial independence amid ongoing legal action by President Donald Trump.
Bill Owens, a veteran journalist and long-time figure at CBS News’ flagship show, said in an internal email obtained by AFP that he could no longer lead the program as he once had.
“Over the past months, it has also become clear that I would not be allowed to run the show as I have always run it — to make independent decisions based on what was right for 60 Minutes, and for our audience,” Owens wrote. “So, having defended this show and what we stand for from every angle, I am stepping aside so the show can move forward.”
60 Minutes, known for its hard-hitting investigative journalism since its debut in 1968, attracts about 10 million viewers weekly. It has recently become a focal point of Trump’s broader campaign against the media.
In late October 2024, Trump filed a lawsuit against the program, accusing it of distorting an interview with Democratic rival Kamala Harris conducted on October 7 — allegations CBS has strongly denied, with many media analysts dismissing the claims as unfounded.
Despite the legal battle, the show has continued airing reports critical of Trump’s administration since his return to the presidency. In retaliation, Trump has demanded the show's cancellation, while his adviser, Elon Musk, has controversially suggested that the team behind 60 Minutes should face lengthy prison terms.
The controversy unfolds as CBS News’ parent company, Paramount, is pursuing a merger with Skydance — a deal requiring approval from FCC chairman Brendan Carr, a known Trump ally.
Trump is seeking US$20 billion (RM88.16 billion) in damages over the Harris interview. While there has been talk of a mediated settlement, Owens has reportedly refused to issue an apology, even if a deal is reached. — AFP
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