Scott MacFarlane Departs CBS News Amidst Ongoing Restructuring
Scott MacFarlane, CBS News’ Justice Correspondent, announced his departure from the network on Monday, March 9, 2026, seeking “some independence” and new avenues for his work. His exit is the latest in a series of changes at CBS News following the appointment of Bari Weiss as editor-in-chief and the pending acquisition of CBS by Paramount and Warner Bros. Discovery.
A Surprising Exit
MacFarlane informed his colleagues of his decision via a note posted on X, expressing gratitude for his time at CBS News and outlining his desire for a new direction in his career. “I will always value the opportunity I had to work alongside the talented and committed professionals here,” MacFarlane wrote. “I’m proud to have had the words ‘CBS correspondent’ next to my name – always will be.” He added that he looks forward to “some independence and finding new spaces to share my work in line with my personal goals.”
According to TV Insider, the announcement came as a surprise to many of his colleagues.
Leadership Changes and Network Shake-Up
MacFarlane’s departure follows significant leadership changes at CBS News. The New York Post reports that Bari Weiss was brought in by Paramount Chief Executive David Ellison with a mandate to shift CBS News toward the political center. Shawna Thomas, the executive producer of “CBS Mornings” since 2021, also recently announced her departure.
Impact of the Paramount-Warner Bros. Discovery Merger
The changes at CBS News are occurring against the backdrop of Paramount’s acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery, finalized on February 27, 2026. The Los Angeles Times notes that CBS News is likely to be combined with Warner Bros. Discovery’s CNN if the deal receives regulatory approval. This potential merger has created uncertainty and prompted an increase in resumes from CBS News journalists, according to industry executives.
MacFarlane’s Career at CBS News
MacFarlane joined CBS News in 2021, serving as a Justice Correspondent. He frequently contributed to the network’s morning and evening reports, notably covering the legal cases stemming from the January 6th Capitol attack. He also reported from the scene of the attempted assassination of President Trump in Butler, Pennsylvania in July 2024, providing initial reports on the shooting and emergency response. Prior to CBS News, MacFarlane spent eight years as an investigative reporter for NBC Washington (WRC-TV).