60 Minutes Reporter Resigns
Bill Owens, the executive producer of 60 Minutes, has stepped down from the legendary CBS news magazine program, citing an erosion of editorial autonomy. His abrupt departure follows mounting legal and political pressure tied to an ongoing $20 billion lawsuit from former President Donald Trump, and internal tensions at CBS.
In a memo to staff obtained by Fox News Digital, Owens stated plainly that he no longer had the freedom to run 60 Minutes as he once did. “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,” he wrote. “To make independent decisions based on what was right for 60 Minutes, right for the audience.”
Owens, who has defended the program through multiple controversies, emphasized that his decision was based on principle. He concluded that the show must move forward, just not under his leadership.
Today’s “60 Minutes” resignation is part of the pattern I described on CNN the other day — Trump’s autocratic playbook is at work against media outlets pic.twitter.com/X16ljr6uhW
— Brian Stelter (@brianstelter) April 22, 2025
The resignation comes amid a $20 billion lawsuit filed by Trump against CBS and 60 Minutes over the airing of an edited interview with Vice President Kamala Harris. Trump claims that CBS misled the public by splitting Harris’ answer on Israel across multiple broadcasts, and has accused the network of election interference. He has called for CBS to lose its broadcast license and accused the outlet of “fraudulent” reporting.
Owens reportedly refused to apologize for the segment as part of any potential settlement, according to the New York Times. His stance may have complicated internal efforts to resolve the matter.
CBS’ parent company, Paramount Global, is exploring settlement options, particularly as it approaches a proposed merger with Skydance Media. Observers believe that resolving the Trump lawsuit could prevent regulatory complications, especially if Trump influences the FCC post-election. Paramount’s controlling shareholder, Shari Redstone, is said to favor a resolution.
CBS News President Wendy McMahon lauded Owens for his tenure, calling his leadership “unwavering” and his commitment to truth “deep.” She suggested that his successor would come from within the CBS ranks.
Owens was only the third executive producer in 60 Minutes’ 57-year history, following in the footsteps of founders Don Hewitt and Jeff Fager.