60 Minutes has announced a slate of new correspondents and contributors following the firing of several veteran journalists earlier this year. The moves reshape the iconic CBS newsmagazine for modern audiences.
New Correspondents and Contributors
The most notable addition is Ross Douthat, a New York Times opinion columnist who will join as a full-time correspondent. Executive producer Nick Bilton praised Douthat as “a thinker of uncommon rigor and a journalist of deep empathy.” Douthat is leaving the Times for this role.
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Norah O’Donnell, who served as a contributor after her anchor stint, has been promoted to correspondent. The show also added three new contributors: author and documentarian Sebastian Junger, filmmaker Gianna Toboni, and UK political commentator Trevor Phillips (already a CBS News global correspondent since June).
Departures and “Black Thursday”
The changes come after what staffers call “Black Thursday” in spring, when the network ousted correspondents Scott Pelley, Sharyn Alfonsi, and Cecilia Vega, along with executive producer Tanya Simon and executive editor Draggan Mihailovich. Pelley was fired “for cause” the following week after challenging management.
Comparison: Old vs. New Lineup
| Role | Former Correspondent | New Correspondent |
|---|---|---|
| Correspondent | Scott Pelley | Ross Douthat |
| Correspondent | Sharyn Alfonsi | Norah O’Donnell |
| Correspondent | Cecilia Vega | Contributors (Junger, Toboni, Phillips) |
The show retained veterans Lesley Stahl and Bill Whitaker, ensuring continuity.
Key Takeaways
- Ross Douthat moves from NYT opinion to 60 Minutes correspondent.
- Norah O’Donnell elevated from contributor to correspondent.
- Three new contributors bring documentary and global commentary experience.
- The departures were part of a major staff shakeup in spring 2025.
Why This Matters
Bilton called the new hires “entrepreneurial journalists who understand how to reach modern audiences.” They bring experience in books, documentaries, podcasts, and live events. The show aims to maintain its legacy of “fearless, independent and impartial reporting” while adapting to changing media consumption.
60 Minutes has been a staple of Sunday night TV for decades, and this injection of fresh talent signals a strategic pivot toward digital and multi-platform storytelling. The new team is expected to debut in the upcoming season.
FAQ
Why were longtime 60 Minutes correspondents fired?
The firings, called “Black Thursday” by staff, came after a series of internal disputes with network management. Scott Pelley was terminated “for cause” after challenging leadership in meetings.
Who is Ross Douthat and why is he joining 60 Minutes?
Ross Douthat is a conservative New York Times opinion columnist. Executive producer Nick Bilton praised his rigor and empathy. Douthat will leave the Times to become a full-time 60 Minutes correspondent.
What other contributors were added?
The show added Sebastian Junger (author/documentarian), Gianna Toboni (filmmaker), and Trevor Phillips (UK political commentator and CBS Global Correspondent).
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