Who Is Scott Pelley? ‘60 Minutes’ Host Who Boldly Attacked CBS Parent Company On Air

In a stunning on-air moment that shocked viewers and industry insiders alike, veteran journalist Scott Pelley publicly called out Paramount Global, the parent company of CBS, accusing it of interfering with the editorial independence of "60 Minutes."

The rare rebuke raised critical questions about media freedom and corporate influence — and thrust Scott Pelley, one of America's most respected newsmen, back into the national spotlight.

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“60 Minutes” Host Scott Pelley Calls Out Paramount for Politically “Supervising Content”

Scott Pelley's Explosive Attack on Paramount: What Happened?

During a high-profile segment on "60 Minutes," Pelley subtly but unmistakably criticized Paramount Global executives, suggesting they were undermining the program's journalistic integrity by pressuring producers over story content and coverage decisions. His comments, delivered with characteristic calm and precision, sent shockwaves through the media industry.

Sources inside CBS News report rising tensions between network journalists and corporate leadership, citing concerns about budget cuts, profit-driven editorial decisions, and diminishing support for investigative reporting. Pelley’s public stand represents a boiling point in the ongoing struggle between journalism and corporate control.

Industry analysts say Pelley's move is almost unprecedented for a high-profile anchor still under contract — and could mark a pivotal moment in the evolving battle over newsroom independence.

Bill Owens announced his resignation last week. Variety via Getty Images

Who Is Scott Pelley?

Scott Pelley was born on July 28, 1957, in San Antonio, Texas, and raised in Lubbock. Fascinated by news from a young age, Pelley began working as a copyboy for the Lubbock Avalanche-Journal at 15. After attending journalism classes at Texas Tech University without completing a degree, he plunged full-time into broadcast journalism.

Scott Pelley: Education and Early Career

Though he did not graduate from Texas Tech, Pelley's professional drive quickly distinguished him. He started his career at KSEL-TV in Lubbock before moving to WFAA-TV in Dallas, where his aggressive investigative reporting drew national attention. CBS News hired him in 1989, launching a historic career that would span more than three decades.

Scott Pelley: Rise at CBS News

Pelley quickly rose through CBS' ranks, covering landmark events including:

• The Gulf War from Baghdad.

• The 9/11 attacks, where he reported live from Ground Zero.

• Wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

• Multiple presidential elections.

From 2011 to 2017, Pelley anchored the "CBS Evening News," restoring its credibility and ratings after years of decline. Known for his direct, fact-driven style, he steered the evening broadcast through major national and international crises.

Returning full-time to "60 Minutes," Pelley produced investigative reports on war crimes, government corruption, environmental disasters, and groundbreaking medical advances. His work exemplified journalism's role in holding power to account.

Scott Pelley: Awards and Achievements

Over his career, Scott Pelley has won:

• 41 Emmy Awards

• 4 Peabody Awards

• 3 duPont-Columbia Awards

• Multiple Edward R. Murrow Awards

He is widely regarded as one of the best reporters of his generation, praised for his fearless interviewing style and deep commitment to truth-telling.

Personal Life: Family and Values

Scott Pelley has been married to Jane Boone, a former television reporter and advertising executive, since 1983. They have two adult children, a son and a daughter. The Pelleys reside in Darien, Connecticut, where Scott enjoys outdoor sports, photography, and reading in his downtime.

Despite his fame, Pelley values privacy and maintains a relatively low public profile outside of his journalism work. His grounded personal life is seen as a pillar that has supported his decades-long career.

Scott Pelley: Net Worth and Financial Standing

Scott Pelley's net worth is estimated at $16 million as of 2025. His wealth stems from:

• High-profile roles at CBS News.

• Lucrative book deals, including his acclaimed memoir, Truth Worth Telling.

• Speaking engagements and panel appearances.

His financial success mirrors his professional stature, solidifying him as one of the most influential figures in American media.

Future Prospects: What's Next for Scott Pelley?

In the wake of his daring criticism of Paramount Global, speculation surrounds Pelley's next moves:

• Remain at CBS? Insiders say network executives are divided over whether to retain or replace him.

• New Media Venture? Some predict Pelley could partner with independent journalism platforms, emphasizing freedom from corporate interference.

• Author and Advocate? With his powerful voice and credibility, Pelley could transition further into writing, public speaking, and advocacy for press freedom.

Regardless of the path he chooses, Scott Pelley's legacy is secure: a journalist who never wavered in his mission to inform the public — even when it meant standing up to the most powerful figures in his own company.

Conclusion

Scott Pelley's fearless attack on CBS' parent company marks a defining chapter in a storied career dedicated to truth, integrity, and public service. As corporate pressures loom over American journalism, Pelley's actions serve as a rallying cry for reporters everywhere: the mission of journalism is to serve the public, not the profit margins.

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