CBS News anchor Norah O’Donnell is encouraging critics of CBS News’ editor-in-chief Bari Weiss to watch “CBS Mornings” following the announcement of her return to the morning program. O’Donnell will join Gayle King and Nate Burleson after Tony Dokoupil’s transition to “CBS Evening News.” She will officially return after Labor Day.

“This is a homecoming for Norah,” stated Jon Tower, the show’s producer, in a memo to staff. The memo highlighted O’Donnell’s past collaboration with Gayle King on “CBS This Morning,” noting their strong chemistry and friendship, which extends beyond the studio.

Some viewers have voiced dissatisfaction with the network since Bari Weiss was appointed editor-in-chief by Paramount CEO David Ellison. On social media, O’Donnell addressed critics, urging them to watch the program before making judgments.

In addition to returning to “CBS Mornings,” O’Donnell becomes a “60 Minutes” correspondent amidst a significant reshuffle. New correspondents include Ross Douthat, formerly of The New York Times. This follows departures of former correspondents such as Sharyn Alfonsi, Cecilia Vega, Scott Pelley, and Anderson Cooper.

Weiss has faced criticism from the far left, who argue she is MAGA-friendly despite her liberal stance. Both she and Ellison aim to focus on moderate viewers rather than extremist fringes. Ellison’s acquisition of The Free Press for $150 million emphasized this approach.

With Paramount planning to purchase Warner Bros. Discovery for $111 billion, Ellison may oversee CBS News and CNN. However, CNN’s editorial independence is promised to remain intact. The merger faces delay due to an antitrust lawsuit set for trial in March 2027, with possible outcomes still uncertain.