Former CBS anchor Katie Couric expressed her dismay over Paramount’s recent settlement with Donald Trump concerning a lawsuit linked to a 60 Minutes interview with Kamala Harris. Couric stated she was “mortified” that Trump had effectively extorted CBS, asserting that the incident represents a troubling trend for the freedom of the press during a critical period in American politics.
Speaking at the Gracies Leadership Awards in New York, an event organized by the Alliance for Women in Media, Couric voiced her concerns regarding corporate media’s responsiveness to political pressure. She noted that the media’s willingness to pay Trump millions of dollars sets a dangerous precedent. “There was nothing wrong with the editing of the Kamala Harris interview on 60 Minutes,” she remarked, highlighting her belief in the integrity of journalistic practices.
In July 2024, CBS’s parent company, Paramount, settled the lawsuit for $16 million. This legal dispute arose amid a significant merger deal with David Ellison’s Skydance Media, which had stalled at the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The FCC approved the merger shortly after the lawsuit’s resolution, raising questions about the motivations behind the settlement.
Couric emphasized the potential chilling effect such settlements may have on journalistic integrity. “It’s our job to challenge the administration,” she stated. Couric, who made history as the first woman to solo anchor a network evening newscast from 2006 to 2011, now runs Katie Couric Media and remains an outspoken advocate for independent journalism.
During her conversation with co-host Sheinelle Jones, Couric also addressed the increasing hostility towards journalists. She condemned the mocking of reporters, particularly in the White House, referencing an incident where Trump referred to a Bloomberg News reporter as “piggy.” Couric described this behavior as “disgusting” and indicative of a broader issue of disrespect towards the media.
“There’s a reason why ‘fake news’ became an earworm,” she explained. Couric believes this rhetoric has successfully undermined public trust in journalism, making it more challenging for reporters to fulfill their essential role. “Most reporters are genuinely seeking the truth and sharing it with the public,” she said, expressing concern about the impacts of belittling journalists, particularly by those in positions of power.
Couric reminisced about one of her most notable interviews with Sarah Palin, the former governor of Alaska and 2008 vice-presidential candidate. During that interview, Palin’s inability to name specific publications she read raised questions about her qualifications, which Couric believes had a significant impact on the election.
The Gracies Leadership Awards also recognized a diverse range of women leaders in media, including Rita Ferro, Connie Orlando, and Michelle Duke, among others. These honorees represent various sectors within the media industry and highlight the ongoing contributions of women in leadership roles.
Couric’s remarks at the Gracies reflect a growing concern among journalists about the implications of corporate influence on media integrity. As she continues to advocate for independent journalism, her commitment to holding power accountable remains a central tenet of her career.
