60 Minutes premiere draws 7.9M viewers, down 20% under new leadership

Key points

• Nielsen data shows the September 13 premiere drew 7.9 million viewers, down from 10 million in 2025.
• New executive producer Nick Bilton, hired by editor-in-chief Bari Weiss, fired veteran correspondents including Scott Pelley.
• CBS highlighted a 201% increase in social media reach and 115% growth in YouTube watch time to offset broadcast declines.
• The episode featured segments on an Air Force pilot shot down in Iran, pardon brokers, and the Los Angeles Rams.
• New contributors like Ross Douthat and Norah O'Donnell joined the roster, while veterans Lesley Stahl and Bill Whitaker stayed.

Background

The premiere follows a turbulent summer where Bari Weiss, appointed by Paramount Skydance CEO David Ellison, overhauled CBS News. Previous coverage noted that Weiss and Bilton modernized the show's graphics and replaced several veteran investigative reporters, sparking debates about the program's editorial independence and public-service mission.

How outlets are covering it

Business Insider and USA Today both reported the 20% ratings drop, attributing it partly to a weaker NFL lead-in. USA Today emphasized that CBS touted digital metrics to counter the broadcast decline, noting that traditional TV ad revenue remains more lucrative than digital. Business Insider highlighted the internal memo from Bilton and Weiss calling the premiere a 'big moment,' while USA Today noted the episode did not mention the recent firings or management changes. Both outlets agreed that the on-air format remained largely familiar despite the behind-the-scenes shakeups.

Why it matters

The ratings drop signals potential audience fatigue or dissatisfaction with the program's new direction, which could impact CBS News' advertising revenue and influence in the coming season.

What to watch

CBS will monitor weekly ratings as the season progresses, with the 2025-2026 season averaging 9.1 million viewers. The network will likely continue to promote digital engagement to offset broadcast declines, while facing scrutiny over its editorial direction under Weiss and Bilton.