Meet the 4 New Journalists Joining “60 Minutes”

**Four New Journalists Join the Ranks of 60 Minutes as Network Restructures**

In a significant revitalisation move, the acclaimed news magazine *60 Minutes* has welcomed four new journalists to its team amid the departure of several prominent staff members, including long-serving correspondent Scott Pelley. These changes come after a period of turmoil for the programme, leading the executive team to refresh its roster with fresh talent.

Scott Pelley, who had been a staple of *60 Minutes* for years, was let go in June 2026 following allegations he made against CBS News editor-in-chief Bari Weiss. In a pointed statement, Pelley accused Weiss of “murdering” *60 Minutes*, a sentiment that appeared to reflect deeper conflicts within the network. The following month, Weiss ushered in a new era by hiring four distinct journalists to enhance the show’s offerings.

Among the new additions is Ross Douthat, a distinguished opinion columnist for *The New York Times*, who will serve as a full-time correspondent for *60 Minutes*. Douthat, who has contributed to the paper since 2009, brings a wealth of experience and insight to the newsmagazine. He is well-known for hosting the podcast *Interesting Times*, where he has engaged with influential figures, including Vice President JD Vance and former Nebraska Senator Ben Sasse. *60 Minutes* executive producer Nick Bilton praised Douthat’s analytical skills and empathetic approach, describing him as “one of the preeminent public intellectuals in America today.”

Joining Douthat as a contributor is Sebastian Junger, an accomplished journalist and documentary filmmaker renowned for his in-depth coverage of war and conflict. His book *The Perfect Storm* brought him widespread acclaim, while his award-winning film *Restrepo*—a documentary chronicling U.S. soldiers in Afghanistan—further solidified his reputation. In 2024, he shared his personal reflections on life and death in his book *In My Time of Dying*, which has drawn considerable attention for its introspective insights.

Further diversifying the team is Gianna Toboni, who also joins as a contributor while serving as a national correspondent for CBS News. Toboni previously excelled at VICE News, producing short documentaries that tackled pressing global issues, including the Iran war and the implications of the Roe v. Wade ruling. Her recent book, *The Volunteer*, explores the harrowing story of a prisoner attempting to expedite his death row execution and has earned accolades, including the Nautilus Book Award for Journalism and Investigative Reporting.

Completing the quartet of new hires is Trevor Phillips, who has been appointed as CBS News’ senior global affairs correspondent and will also contribute to *60 Minutes*. The British journalist brings a rich array of experience, having previously presented the Sky News programme *Sunday Morning*. Phillips has also held prominent positions in public service, notably chairing the London Assembly and leading the Commission for Racial Equality under Prime Minister Tony Blair. His advocacy work in equality and human rights earned him a knighthood in 2022.

In addition to the newcomers, *60 Minutes* has also announced a promotion for Norah O’Donnell, who was elevated to correspondent status after serving as a contributor. The show’s veteran correspondents—Lesley Stahl, Bill Whitaker, and Jon Wertheim—are set to return for the 59th season, which is set to debut on 13 September 2026.

The restructuring at *60 Minutes* reflects a broader trend in media, as networks adapt to changing audience behaviours and technological advancements. By bringing in journalists with diverse backgrounds and expertise, CBS aims to not only retain its long-standing reputation for investigative journalism but also to attract and engage a modern audience.

As the new season approaches, viewers of *60 Minutes* can anticipate fresh perspectives and dynamic storytelling from a team that represents both legacy and innovation within the field of journalism.