Can We Still Trust Investigative Journalism?
Even trusted news programs like 60 Minutes are now facing serious pressure—from both corporations and politics. The recent resignation of its executive producer shows how much things have changed. Once known for fearless reporting, 60 Minutes now finds itself caught in a web of influence. What does that mean for the future of journalism?
A Resignation That Says a Lot
In April 2025, 60 Minutes executive producer Bill Owens stepped down. He said he couldn’t make editorial decisions without interference from his parent company, Paramount Global. His decision came as Paramount was finalizing a major corporate merger—one backed by political interests.
Longtime reporter Scott Pelley defended the show’s work but admitted that pressure from executives had grown. As Vulture reported, even though no stories were pulled, the environment had clearly changed.
Why the Paramount Merger Mattered
This all started with a major media merger. In 2019, CBS and Viacom joined forces to form what is now Paramount Global. Their goal? Compete with companies like Netflix and Disney+ by combining content and expanding streaming.
But the deal wasn’t just about business. It also had political support from the Trump administration, which helped push it through. According to The Wall Street Journal and Variety, this created tension inside the company, especially in the newsroom.
60 Minutes, once known for taking on the powerful, now found itself reporting under the weight of boardroom decisions. The executive producer’s exit was a signal: editorial freedom was being replaced by business concerns.
Why Corporate Mergers Hurt Journalism
Media companies are merging more than ever, and it’s changing what gets reported. When the same company owns both entertainment and news, profit can come before truth. As Chicago Booth Review shows, news coverage often shifts depending on who’s in charge.
In 60 Minutes’ case, it wasn’t about clear censorship. It was about quiet influence—what stories to chase, what tone to strike. Over time, this changes what viewers see. And it damages trust.
How Can We Fix It?
We can’t turn back the clock, but we can push for better journalism. Here’s how:
1. Be Transparent
News outlets should be honest about who owns them and what pressures they face. It helps viewers decide what to trust.
2. Support Independent Outlets
Nonprofit newsrooms like ProPublica don’t answer to shareholders. They focus on public service. Donations and subscriptions help them stay independent.
3. Teach Media Literacy
We need to help people—especially students—spot bias and fact-check stories. That’s key in today’s information overload.
4. Encourage Teamwork in Journalism
When reporters from different places work together, no single company controls the story. This leads to stronger, fairer reporting.
A Wake-Up Call for the News Industry
The resignation at 60 Minutes wasn’t just a staffing change. It was a warning. When business and politics influence journalism (as they do legislation), truth gets blurry. And thus, we have a news media that is evermore broken.
As The Guardian points out, the media must fight to stay independent. But it also needs support—from the public.
Final Thought: The Fight for Truth Isn’t Over
The media is at a crossroads. Mergers and politics are changing how stories are told. But we still need journalism that speaks truth to power.
We can rebuild trust—but only if we stay alert, ask hard questions, and support those who report with integrity.
